Matthew J. Webber, PhD
Keating-Crawford Collegiate Professor of Engineering,
University of Notre Dame
Featured in the Session: The New Frontier of Hypoglycemia Prevention: Pathophysiology, Therapies, Technology, and Care
When
Sunday, June 7
at 1:30 p.m. CT
Where
R07 (Level 2)
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
What is your presentation about?
We develop glucose-responsive glucagon delivery strategies that couple molecular sensing to controlled hormone release to improve protection against hypoglycemia. Across multiple material platforms, designs aim to stabilize glucagon and modulate its availability as glucose levels change, aligning exposure with physiological need. Our studies demonstrate tunable responsiveness, preserved bioactivity, and effective correction of hypoglycemia in relevant models. These approaches advance toward autonomous counterregulation to improve safety and overall glycemic management.
How do you hope your presentation will impact diabetes research or care?
This presentation aims to define design principles for glucose-responsive glucagon delivery that link molecular sensing to clinically relevant pharmacology. By demonstrating generalizable strategies for stabilizing glucagon and enabling demand-driven release, the work supports development of adjuncts to insulin therapy that reduce hypoglycemia risk. More broadly, it informs translation toward autonomous counterregulation and safer, more resilient glycemic management.
How did you become involved with this area of diabetes research or care?
My involvement in this area emerged from a broader focus on supramolecular biomaterials and drug delivery, with an emphasis on dynamic systems that couple molecular recognition to function. Recognizing the unmet need for reliable protection against hypoglycemia, our group began developing glucose-responsive platforms for counterregulatory hormone delivery, particularly glucagon. This direction builds on our work in responsive insulin systems and extends it toward integrated, bidirectional management of glycemia.