Dynorphin's role in insulin release
Dynorphin, a novel paracrine factor that regulates insulin secretion
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-11319879
This project looks at whether a natural pancreatic messenger called dynorphin helps control insulin release for people with or at risk for type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CORAL GABLES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11319879 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project studies how beta cells make and release dynorphin and how that signal acts on nearby delta cells through the kappa opioid receptor to change insulin secretion. Researchers will use mouse models and human islet cells or donor pancreas tissue to measure dynorphin levels and hormone responses. Lab experiments will manipulate the dynorphin–KOR pathway to see how it affects glucose-regulating hormones under normal and insulin-resistant conditions. The goal is to map a feedback loop that may contribute to high blood sugar in diabetes and identify points for possible treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, and people willing to donate pancreatic tissue or participate in future clinical components, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People with advanced diabetes complications who need immediate treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could identify new drug targets to boost insulin secretion and help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: This is a relatively new approach: early laboratory data suggest dynorphin can affect islet hormones, but it has not yet been translated into proven patient therapies.
Where this research is happening
CORAL GABLES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE — CORAL GABLES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BLANDINO-ROSANO, MANUEL — UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: BLANDINO-ROSANO, MANUEL
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 below.
Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus