Implantable Cell Therapy Restores Natural Cortisol Rhythms in Addison's Disease Animal Research
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A bioprinted, off-the-shelf implantable cell therapy developed by Aspect Biosystems restored natural cortisol production in adrenalectomized mice, with hormone secretion following a normal circadian rhythm rather than flat replacement levels. Presented at ENDO 2025, the research represents a meaningful step toward a potential functional cure for autoimmune Addison's disease.
Abstract
Presented at ENDO 2025, this study investigated whether adrenal Bioprinted Tissue Therapeutics (BTTs), an off-the-shelf implantable cell therapy developed by Aspect Biosystems, could restore adrenal hormone function in a murine model of primary adrenal insufficiency.
Following bilateral adrenalectomy in mice, adrenal BTTs were implanted subcutaneously. Animals demonstrated rapid and sustained increases in circulating cortisol post-implantation, following a circadian rhythm consistent with the animals' natural daily hormone cycle. This reproduces physiologic hormone dynamics that cannot be consistently replicated with conventional oral glucocorticoid replacement therapy.
The construct is designed for off-the-shelf use, eliminating the need for autologous cell manufacturing. These preclinical findings support the translational potential of adrenal BTTs as a functional replacement therapy for primary adrenal insufficiency and provide rationale for advancement into human clinical trials.