Development of Continuous C-Peptide Monitoring Technologies

Breakthrough T1D is a leading nonprofit dedicated to advancing research and innovation for type 1 diabetes (T1D). With a mission centered on improving lives and driving towards a cure, the organization supports scientific breakthroughs that address the complex mechanisms and treatment strategies for T1D. The latest funding opportunity seeks to foster the development of Continuous C-peptide Monitoring (CCPM) technologies. This initiative is intended to support novel sensor technologies and monitoring systems that can provide dynamic, real-time insights into beta cell function—an essential marker in the progression and treatment of T1D. C-peptide, a byproduct of endogenous insulin production, serves as a key biomarker for beta cell activity. However, current methods for monitoring C-peptide are static and often fail to reflect the dynamic nature of its secretion. These conventional assessments, such as stimulated tests and point-of-care assays, are invasive, time-consuming, and poorly suited to real-world, longitudinal monitoring. To address these gaps, Breakthrough T1D is funding early-stage and preclinical projects aimed at creating minimally invasive, user-friendly platforms capable of continuous or high-frequency C-peptide detection in biological fluids such as plasma or interstitial fluid. Funding of up to $900,000 over a maximum three-year period is available, though proposals requiring greater scope may be considered with strong justification. The program welcomes both academic and industry-led proposals and provides two funding mechanisms: the Strategic Research Agreement (SRA) for nonprofit institutions and the Industry Discovery and Development Partnerships (IDDP) for for-profit entities. Applicants under the IDDP must provide company matching funds and follow additional guidelines outlined in the Grant Handbook. Proposals should demonstrate innovative sensing technologies, clinical utility, and usability across diverse populations. Projects will be evaluated on significance, approach, innovation, and potential for clinical translation. Required milestones include in vitro sensor validation, detection in physiological conditions, early feasibility studies, and integration into wearable or at-home platforms. Collaboration between engineering and clinical disciplines is encouraged to ensure translatability. The application process begins with a two-page Letter of Intent (LOI) due by December 4, 2025, through the RMS360 platform. Applicants will be notified of LOI outcomes by January 8, 2026. Full proposals are due February 12, 2026, with funding decisions expected by July and earliest awards beginning in September 2026. Program contacts include Dr. Amin Ghavami Nejad for scientific inquiries and Madhu Prakash for administrative support.

Align proposal with beta cell function monitoring goals; emphasize usability and integration with clinical needs; define measurable milestones and inflection points; consider collaboration with clinical experts