Creating a 3D-printed scaffold to protect and support insulin-producing cells for Type 1 diabetes treatment
Official title: Engineering a Multi-Therapeutic, 3D-Printed Scaffold for Local Immunoprotection and Favorable Engraftment of Pancreatic Islets for Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10997826 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a special 3D-printed support that helps protect and keep pancreatic islets alive, which are important for making insulin in people with Type 1 diabetes, so they can better manage their blood sugar levels after receiving a transplant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,902 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DK138744-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997826 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 considering or are eligible for islet transplantation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 diabetes or those who are not candidates for islet transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a specialized 3D-printed scaffold designed to protect and enhance the survival of pancreatic islets, which are crucial for insulin production in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. The approach involves engineering the scaffold to improve its structure, allowing for better integration with the body and reducing inflammation at the site of islet transplantation. By optimizing the scaffold's porosity and thickness, the researchers aim to create an environment that supports the successful engraftment of donor islets, ultimately helping patients regain control over their blood glucose levels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved outcomes for Type 1 diabetes patients by enhancing the effectiveness of islet transplantation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials for islet protection, but this specific approach with 3D printing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lansberry, Taylor Rose — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Lansberry, Taylor Rose
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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.