Breakthrough T1D, formerly known as JDRF, continues to lead global efforts to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes. The organization has played a defining role in nearly every major advancement in diabetes care, from helping establish continuous glucose monitoring(CGM) as a standard tool to funding the early research behind automated insulin delivery systems.

Under the leadership of CEO Dr. Aaron J. Kowalski, Breakthrough T1D has expanded its mission to improve life for people with diabetes today while still pushing toward a cure. Kowalski, who lives with type 1 himself, was directly involved in the early work that helped validate CGMs and the first artificial pancreas systems. What was once seen as an experimental idea is now the foundation of modern diabetes tech.

On the cure front, Breakthrough T1D’s Project ACT (Accelerate Cell Therapies) is advancing stem cell–derived islet replacement, gene-edited cells, and encapsulation methods designed to remove the need for lifelong insulin and immune suppression. The organization is also funding the development of faster-acting and glucose-responsive “smart” insulins.

In our conversation with Dr. Aaron J. Kowalski, we explore his early experiences with CGM over the years, how the Artificial Pancreas Project changed the landscape, and how open-source innovation helped speed up commercial AID systems. He also discusses the breakthroughs in cure research happening now, the potential of Tzield (teplizumab) to delay the onset of type 1 diabetes, why immunosupressants may not be as bad as we think, and why he truly believes he will take off his insulin pump as CEO of Breakthrough T1D.

Listen to the full conversation above or watch our conversation in video below. Let us know what you think down in the comments!

Disclaimer: Diabetech content is not medical advice—it’s for educational purposes only. Always consult with a physician before making changes to your healthcare.