Despite past setbacks and the failure of larger artificial pancreas projects, Professor Roman Havok's dedication to creating closed-loop delivery systems for an artificial pancreas has never wavered. Born in the Czech Republic, Havok began his career in a university hospital, where he saw the potential to help people with diabetes by modeling metabolic processes.
In the video, Havok shares his journey from studying mathematical informatics to spearheading clinical trials and establishing the JDRF Artificial Pancreas Consortium. Researchers discuss the development of a closed-loop insulin delivery system for type 1 diabetes, focusing on error prevention and safety measures. Clinical trials at Adam Brooks Hospital in Cambridge tested the system on children, whose unpredictable eating patterns and faster metabolism presented unique challenges. The team navigated the complex process of developing medical devices and establishing a company, resulting in significant quality of life improvements for participants, who described it as a "diabetes holiday."
Havok shares a personal connection to the project, having lost a friend to a nighttime hypoglycemic event. Today, several closed-loop systems are available for people with type 1 diabetes, marking a significant advancement in diabetes management until a cure is found.
00:00 - Introduction to Insulin and Artificial Pancreas
00:24 - Early Development Challenges
00:42 - Introduction to Professor Roman Havok
01:06 - Continuous Glucose Monitor and Artificial Pancreas
01:41 - Roman Havok's Background and Early Career
02:32 - Initial Skepticism and Early Efforts in Artificial Pancreas Development
03:42 - Establishment of Research Group and Collaboration with JDRF
04:34 - Safety Measures and Clinical Trials in Children
05:40 - Challenges of Building a System for Children
06:30 - Impact of Clinical Trials and User Feedback
07:30 - Conclusion and Current Availability of Closed Loop Systems