Vancouver-based Aspect Biosystems recently presented exciting preclinical data at ENDO 2025 demonstrating the potential of its "Bioprinted Tissue Therapeutics" for primary adrenal insufficiency. Researchers implanted bioprinted adrenal tissue containing human adrenal cells into animal models and found that the implants:
- Produced cortisol in response to ACTH stimulation
- Followed natural circadian hormone rhythms
- Remained functional for more than six months
- Improved survival in treated animals
The long-term goal is to create an implantable cell therapy that could restore natural adrenal hormone production instead of relying solely on daily replacement medications. Although this work remains in the preclinical stage and human trials have not yet begun, it represents one of the most innovative regenerative medicine approaches currently under development for Addison's disease.
Why This Matters
Current hormone replacement therapy saves lives, but cannot fully replicate the body's natural hormone patterns. Researchers hope that tissue-based therapies may someday provide a more physiological source of cortisol production and potentially reduce the burden of disease management.
Adaptyx Biosciences: The Future of Continuous Cortisol Monitoring
Stanford spinout Adaptyx Biosciences is developing wearable technology capable of continuously monitoring free cortisol levels.
In June 2026, the company reported the first multi-day continuous cortisol measurements in humans using a wearable biosensor. The device successfully tracked cortisol fluctuations throughout the day and captured normal overnight hormone rhythms that conventional testing often misses. The company's platform may eventually be applicable to adrenal insufficiency management and hydrocortisone optimization.
Why This Matters
Many people with adrenal insufficiency and their clinicians make treatment decisions using symptom patterns and occasional laboratory measurements.
A continuous cortisol monitor could eventually help:
- Better understand individual hormone needs
- Assess replacement timing
- Detect patterns of over- or under-replacement
- Support more personalized treatment strategies
While the technology is still under development, it offers a glimpse of what "precision monitoring" may look like in the future.
Watch the video presentation from the Aspect Biosystems team at our AGM