Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) and Stichting DON (Diabetes Onderzoek Nederland) have officially launched Cure One, a new research center dedicated to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. Announced on June 23, 2025, the center aims to fast-track the development of therapies that move beyond symptom management to achieve long-term remission or even reversal of the disease.
The Cure One initiative brings together a wide range of expertise, including stem cell–derived insulin-producing cell therapies, targeted immune interventions, and advanced transplant technologies. A key focus is to overcome major challenges such as the shortage of donor organs and the need for lifelong immunosuppression in transplant recipients.
Professor Eelco de Koning, a leading endocrinologist at LUMC, will head the center. Under his leadership, Cure One will pursue the integration of regenerative medicine and immunology to deliver scalable, personalized treatments for people with type 1 diabetes.
The foundation DON is providing long-term structural funding to support the center’s operations. Additional backing is expected from government bodies and other partners. Cure One will be officially inaugurated on November 14, 2025, aligning with World Diabetes Day, a symbolic moment for a mission that aims to permanently change the future of diabetes care.
Read more here: https://www.lumc.nl/actueel/2025/lumc-en-stichting-don-lanceren-nieuw-onderzoekscentrum-type-1-diabetes/
