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LMU Innovation Incubator News

3 Feb 2025

ProP: Breaking New Ground in Diabetes Treatment

Imagine a future where Type 2 Diabetes, a condition that affects 1 in 10 people globally, is managed not just through immediate relief but with a vision to halt its progression and related complications. Enter ProP, a groundbreaking startup, part of LMU’s Innovation Incubator Cohort #6, that’s reshaping the landscape of diabetes care.

Dr. Maren Heimhalt, and her team are pioneering an innovative therapy that tackles not only the symptoms but also the co-morbidities affecting up to 80% of diabetes patients. By focusing on improving glucose metabolism and reducing organ fat buildup, ProP’s approach promises to help patients stay healthier longer and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

In an interview, Maren Heimhalt and her team, currently in our Incubation program, shared a few insights about their developments and startup journey.

The LMU Innovation Incubator: A Stepping Stone for LMU Researchers

For Dr. Heimhalt, Joining the LMU Innovation Incubator was a transformative step. “As a scientist, translating research into real-world applications felt overwhelming,” she shares. “The Incubator created a supportive environment where I could learn the language of entrepreneurship and business development.”

The Incubator becomes foundational for ProP’s development. Through the program, Maren Dr. Heimhalt connected with a motivated team and is developing the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of bringing an innovative therapy to market.

Turning Ideas Into Impact

This year, ProP reached a significant milestone by securing funding through the prestigious GoBio Initial program. Supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, this funding enabled ProP to build a professional team, conduct vital market analyses, and connect with leading experts in diabetes research.

Dr. Heimhalt highlights how these resources have shaped their strategy: “The funding allowed us to validate our hypotheses, refine our commercial approach, and gain valuable feedback from industry experts. Attending conferences and building new collaborations has been a game-changer for our vision.”

The Team Behind the Vision

The ProP team—a group of passionate individuals with complementary strengths—was brought together through the Incubator. “Starting with no resources, I feel incredibly fortunate to have found teammates who share my vision and drive to create something truly innovative,” Dr. Heimhalt explains. Their collaborative spirit has been instrumental in tackling challenges and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Shaping the Future of Biomedical Science

ProP’s approach is set to transform diabetes care by breaking the cycle of insulin resistance. With advancements in mRNA technology, the team envisions engineering artificial proteins to deliver long-lasting benefits for patients.

Despite their progress, the journey is far from over. The ProP team’s current goals include validating their hypotheses in diabetic animal models and securing further funding to advance their research. “We are at an exciting crossroads where our science can truly make a difference in patients’ lives,” says Dr. Heimhalt.

A Call to Action

ProP’s mission is fueled by collaboration, and you can play a vital role in their journey. “We’re seeking support in two key areas: funding and partnerships,” Dr. Heimhalt shares. “Whether it’s mentorship, sharing expertise, or providing financial backing, your involvement can bring us one step closer to transforming diabetes care. Let’s join forces to create a brighter future for patients worldwide.”

Are you inspired by ProP’s journey? Join the LMU Innovation Incubator and become part of a community dedicated to shaping the future of innovation and entrepreneurship. Together, we can transform your research into reality and create a positive impact through innovation!