Investigational device · Preclinical phase · Grenoble, France

Toward life without insulin injections.

BIOPI is developing an implantable bioartificial pancreas designed to restore autonomous glucose regulation for people living with unstable Type 1 Diabetes. Our approach protects insulin-secreting cells within an advanced 3D hydrogel matrix, without the need for immunosuppressive drugs.

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Investigational device in preclinical development. Functional prototype established. Not approved for sale or clinical use.
Conceptual device view Glucose in · Insulin out · Immune blocked
Innovation

A new class of living therapy

BIOPI is building a fully implantable system that protects insulin-secreting cells inside a patented 3D matrix, enhances survival, and creates a path toward scalable treatment for unstable Type 1 Diabetes.

The BIOPI Difference

BIOPI combines physical immune protection, optimized oxygenation, physiological glucose response, and a durable implantable design within one coherent therapeutic platform.

Immunoprotection

Physical immune shielding designed to avoid lifelong anti-rejection drugs.

Optimized Oxygenation

Engineered architecture designed to support cell survival and function over time.

Physiological Glucose Response

Encapsulated cells sense glucose and release insulin autonomously.

Implantable Durable Platform

Designed as a fully self-contained system for long-term implantation.

Disclaimer: Investigational device in preclinical phase. Functional prototype developed; not yet available for sale.

How it works

From cell source to autonomous regulation

Four coordinated stages. One implantable platform. A therapeutic logic built to restore function instead of managing burden.

1. Cell Sourcing

Current preclinical work uses donor pancreatic islets. The long-term vision includes scalable future sources such as stem-cell-derived cells.

2. 3D Encapsulation

A patented hydrogel matrix creates a protected and biocompatible microenvironment around the cells.

3. Oxygen & Nutrient Support

The architecture is designed to preserve cell viability by optimizing passive diffusion and local exchange.

4. Responsive Regulation

Encapsulated cells sense glucose and secrete insulin autonomously, aiming to restore physiological regulation.

For investors & strategic partners

Why BIOPI occupies a unique position

BIOPI is defined by a coherent strategic combination: immunoprotection without drugs, priority indication focus, a scalable cell-source pathway, and a device logic designed for patient independence.

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No immunosuppressants

BIOPI is designed to provide immune protection physically rather than pharmacologically, reducing long-term treatment burden.

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Scalable cell source pathway

The platform is being developed for future compatibility with renewable cell sources, creating a path beyond donor-limited treatment models.

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Unstable T1D first

BIOPI targets the most underserved Type 1 Diabetes population, where unmet medical need and therapeutic differentiation are strongest.

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No external hardware

Once implanted, the BIOPI system is designed to function independently, without pumps, consumables, or routine refill burden.

Where we stand

Milestones, roadmap & scientific foundation

BIOPI is advancing through a clear translational sequence, from academic validation to startup structuring, preclinical execution, and clinical ambition.

Portrait of Ibrahim Shalayel, Project Leader at BIOPI
Ibrahim Shalayel
Entrepreneur · Project Leader BIOPI

Science should not remain in the lab when it can change lives and create a positive impact in our society. After decades of efforts to develop an effective implantable bioreactor, BIOPI is bringing this vision closer to reality.

My ambition is to transform years of dedicated work within our research team into a real solution for patients. We are not only building a technology... we are building a French DeepTech company with the ambition to redefine how Type 1 Diabetes is treated worldwide and to offer a brighter future for people living with the disease.

Portrait of Professor Abdelkader Zebda, Project scientific leader at BIOPI
Pr. Abdelkader Zebda
Project scientific leader (PI) · TIMC · Université Grenoble Alpes

The BIOPI project builds on years of research in bioelectrochemistry and implantable systems. Our objective is to design a robust and reliable platform capable of protecting insulin-secreting cells while ensuring their long-term function.

Building on promising in vitro and in vivo results, our priority is now to translate this laboratory innovation into meaningful clinical impact.

Roadmap at a glance

2021
CNRS Prematuration
Early scientific de-risking and structuring of the BIOPI concept within the academic environment.
2023
SATT Linksium Maturation
Technology maturation, IP strengthening, and translational development toward startup readiness.
2026
SATT Linksium Incubation
Startup structuring, strategic positioning, and acceleration of BIOPI's entrepreneurial trajectory.
Ongoing
Preclinical testing of the functional prototype
In vivo and translational validation efforts continue to demonstrate device safety, viability, and therapeutic promise.
Next
Preclinical validation & regulatory engagement
Completion of key validation steps and preparation for formal interactions with regulatory authorities.
Horizon
First-in-human clinical trial
BIOPI's long-term objective: translate the platform into human studies for unstable Type 1 Diabetes.
Recognition & Momentum

Independent signals of progress

BIOPI has already received external recognition from the Grenoble and French innovation ecosystem, reinforcing the momentum behind the project.

2024

Deep Impact Award — Jury Special Prize

2025

Selected Top 5 MedTech/Biotech at Tech&Fest

2026

SATT Linksium incubation approved

Ecosystem

Empowered by leading partners

BIOPI is supported by a strong academic, clinical, and innovation ecosystem in Grenoble and beyond.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

BIOPI combines immune protection without lifelong immunosuppressants, an implantable hydrogel-based architecture, a focus on unstable Type 1 Diabetes, and a long-term path toward scalable cell sourcing in one coherent platform.

BIOPI is in preclinical development. Functional prototype work is ongoing, with translational validation and regulatory preparation forming the next key steps.

BIOPI prioritizes unstable Type 1 Diabetes, where severe glycemic instability and recurrent hypoglycemia create the highest unmet medical need and strongest therapeutic rationale.

Human studies will begin only after successful preclinical validation and appropriate regulatory preparation.
Contact

Connect With Us

We welcome collaborations with investors, industry partners, and research institutions. Based in Grenoble, France. Hosted at TIMC Laboratory (INSyGHT Team).

contact@bio-pi.com
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