Blocking the immune response that causes diabetes
Official title: Inhibition of autoimmune diabetes by ST8Sia6
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11032826 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with type 1 diabetes by using special sugars to calm down the immune system so it stops attacking the insulin-producing cells, which could lead to better treatments and outcomes for those needing transplants or other therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $409,214 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136208-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032826 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who are experiencing challenges with blood glucose control.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or those whose diabetes is not autoimmune in nature may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to inhibit the immune system's attack on insulin-producing beta cells in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The approach focuses on using sialic acids to bind to receptors that can suppress the immune response, potentially preventing further destruction of these vital cells. By exploring immunotherapies that target the immune response locally, the research aims to reduce the need for systemic immunosuppression, which can lead to serious complications. This could improve the outcomes for patients undergoing islet transplantation or those seeking alternative therapies for T1D.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for type 1 diabetes, reducing complications and improving quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using immunotherapies to manage autoimmune conditions, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for type 1 diabetes.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shapiro, Virginia Smith — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Shapiro, Virginia Smith
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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.