Zucara Therapeutics is pioneering a novel therapeutic approach aimed at preventing insulin-induced hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, specifically through the development of ZT-01. This first-in-class treatment works by inhibiting somatostatin, a hormone that negatively impacts glucagon secretion during hypoglycemic episodes. By blocking somatostatin type 2 (SSTR2) receptors on pancreatic alpha cells, ZT-01 aims to restore glucagon release, thereby enhancing the body’s ability to counter-regulate low blood sugar levels. The technology has shown promising results in preclinical studies and has successfully completed Phase 1 trials, demonstrating safety and tolerability in both healthy volunteers and Type 1 diabetes patients.

In addition to its focus on diabetes, Zucara's technology also highlights the challenges faced in treating intermediate- to high-risk bladder cancer. Through a partnership with Sitka Biopharma, Zucara is involved in developing a nanoparticulate drug delivery system that enhances the absorption of chemotherapeutic agents directly into the bladder. This innovative approach combines hyperbranched polyglycerols with docetaxel, significantly improving drug uptake in bladder tissue compared to existing formulations. The collaboration with leading scientists in drug delivery and urology underscores the potential of this technology to address unmet medical needs in both diabetes management and cancer treatment.

Canada

Zucara Therapeutics, a CDRD and MaRS Innovation portfolio company, is developing the first drug therapy to prevent hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. Our first-in-class therapeutic is focused on improving glucagon counterregulation by inhibiting somatostatin which is dysregulated in Type 1 diabetes. Preventing hypoglycemia will dramatically change diabetes disease management, improving both patient health and quality of life..

Zucara Therapeutics

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