HKUMedXelerate 2025 Project Showcase: Discover Groundbreaking Diabetes Innovations

We're excited to introduce you to the top projects from HKUMedXelerate 2025, a showcase of cutting-edge advancements from the LKS Faculty of Medicine at The University of Hong Kong. This series highlights transformative technologies poised to revolutionise healthcare.

Here are the Top 10 Finalists:

In this edition, we focus on Diabetes-Focused Innovations—two pioneering projects addressing the global diabetes crisis, which affects over 540 million people worldwide. These initiatives combine advanced stem cell therapy and AI-optimised traditional medicine to offer new hope for patients.

1. Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Human Islet Organoids for Cure of Diabetes

Led by Prof. Zhongjun ZHOU, this project from Nordia Biotech & Pharmaceuticals is developing functional islet organoids from stem cells using a patented method for spontaneous 3D structure formation. These organoids are transplanted into patients to enable steady insulin secretion and long-term blood glucose control, potentially curing diabetes. The company also offers biomaterial scaffolds for better transplantation efficiency and islet-based research services.

Founded in December 2023 by Prof. Zhou and his former PhD student He Yi, Nordia has secured 7M HKD in Angel funding led by HKX and is pursuing a 30M HKD Pre-A round, with support from TSSSU+ and HKSTP Incu-Bio.

Learn more: Scan QR or click HERE to visit 

2. GC01: AI-Driven Oral Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy

Led by Prof. Yibin FENG, GC01 is an innovative oral treatment derived from the classic Huanglian Tang formula, enhanced by AI for optimal composition and bioactive molecules. 

Targeting diabetic retinopathy (DR)—a leading cause of vision loss in 20% of diabetic patients—it offers a non-invasive alternative to costly injections like Eylea and Lucentis. Clinical studies show a 75% effectiveness in improving vision, reducing angiogenesis, and protecting neurons via a novel Myoferlin pathway.

With two patents and a path to New Drug Application (NDA) in China/Hong Kong and U.S. FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) as a botanical drug, GC01 aims to transform DR management globally.

Learn more: Scan QR or click HERE to visit

These projects exemplify Hong Kong's role as a biomedical hub, blending tradition with technology to tackle unmet needs. 

Stay tuned for more in our upcoming 4 editions!

If you're interested in partnerships, investment, or further details, reach out to us at infottu@hku.hk.