# I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Gene Therapy to Treat Animal Diabetes

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of South Florida (FL) · $50,000

## Abstract

This I-Corps project focuses on the development of a new gene therapy designed to treat diabetes in pets through a single, long-lasting injection. Diabetes is a growing health issue among companion animals, with hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats affected in the United States alone. Current treatments often require daily insulin injections, which can be stressful, expensive, and difficult for pet owners to manage. The technology addresses that challenge by creating a simpler, more effective solution that helps regulate blood sugar levels with just one treatment. The therapy works by helping the animal’s body produce a natural protein that improves how it uses insulin and protects against damage caused by diabetes. The scale of the problem is significant, with the number of diabetic pets increasing and limited treatment options available. This therapy has the potential to reduce long-term veterinary costs and make diabetes care more accessible. Early results also show improvements in both body and brain health, supporting the potential for wider therapeutic benefits. The project also looks at how this treatment can be scaled up for use in veterinary clinics, filling a major gap in long-term care for pets with chronic diseases.

This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of the technology. This solution is based on the development of a gene therapy platform desig

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2525037
- **Awardee organization:** University of South Florida (FL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** NKAZLXLL7Z91
- **PI:** Aurelie Joly-Amado
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Synthetic biology
- **Estimated total:** $50,000
- **Funds obligated:** $50,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2525037

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2525037, I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Gene Therapy to Treat Animal Diabetes. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2525037. Licensed CC0.

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