Stasys

Type 2 Diabetes: A Shift in Thinking?

Twenty five million Americans live with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the United States. Traditionally, T2DM has been treated with insulin therapy and oral hypoglycemics which compound over a patient’s lifetime, cause weight gain, and lead to greater insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery has been shown as an extremely promising treatment for T2DM as recognized by the American Diabetic Association. However, very few patients qualify for surgical treatment and are willing to accept the risks inherent to the invasive procedure. Research over the past several decades has pointed to exclusion of the proximal gut from contact with nutrient flow as the cause of diabetic remission.

The Stasys Approach

After conducting an extensive literature search and speaking with leading bariatric surgeons, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, the Stasys team has identified a novel device-based approach to mimic the metabolic effects of surgery while minimizing risks. Exclusion of the intestine from alimentary flow is achieved via an intestinal lining delivered by orally ingested capsules. The mechanism of our first-generation devices has been validated using a bench-top peristalsis model. Furthermore, several proof of concept in-vivo rat studies have validated the impact of our approach on blood glucose levels. Stasys is on track for large animal experiments to validate the safety and efficacy of our device. Patients, providers, and payers have expressed support of the Stasys treatment due to the early demonstration of efficacy, low risk profile, and cost of the device. The Stasys approach has the potential to improve the lives of millions of type 2 diabetics in the United States and beyond.