Blocking IAPP protein clumps to protect insulin-producing cells
Official title: Inhibition of Human Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Aggregation
Funded at Clemson University · NIH-11392328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aims to stop the clumping of a protein (IAPP) that harms insulin-making cells in type 2 diabetes, with potential ripple effects for related brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $405,322 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM145409-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11392328 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with type 2 diabetes or those at risk for β-cell damage could eventually benefit from therapies developed from this work.
✕Less likely to help
At this stage, results may not directly help patients until therapies are developed and validated in humans.
What this research studies
This project explores how IAPP forms harmful clumps and how we might prevent it, using lab studies that mimic human cell environments. Researchers will study the structural details of IAPP aggregates and test molecules that can keep them from forming or toxic intermediates. The work focuses on understanding how these clumps damage cell membranes and contribute to diabetes progression, with interest in links to Alzheimer’s and other amyloid diseases. Results could guide the development of new therapies to preserve β-cell health and slow diabetes-related complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect insulin-producing cells and may also offer insights into preventing related neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that targeting amyloid formation can alter disease progression in related conditions, but precise mechanisms in IAPP are still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Clemson University
Clemson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ding, Feng — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Ding, Feng
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.