JDRF, InnoCentive launch challenge for treatment of diabetes

WALTHAM, Mass. — The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and InnoCentive are calling for innovative ways to approach the discovery and development of a glucose-responsive insulin drug as a means to treat Type 1 diabetes.

JDRF and InnoCentive's $100,000 Challenge is open to anyone with a solution that fits the published criteria and requires a written proposal. Submissions will be accepted through Nov. 9. The winning solution from this challenge could be further developed into a second phase, named the preclinical proof of principle “validation phase,” JDRF and InnoCentive said. This second phase would require a detailed research plan proposal and could offer the winning solver(s) the opportunity to become a member(s) of the team created to put the winning solution into practice.

“JDRF is an organization that recognizes the importance of innovation in the healthcare industry,” InnoCentive president and CEO Dwayne Spradlin said. “This approach of looking beyond traditional researchers to gain new insights, ideas and solutions illustrates their commitment to finding a better way to treat diabetes. We are excited to be partnering with JDRF to find new ways to enhance the quality of life for patients while helping patients better manage their disease.”