Encapsulating islets to improve transplantation outcomes for type 1 diabetes
Official title: Islet encapsulation to elicit localized immunosuppression and immune modulation following transplantation
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-10927348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people with type 1 diabetes by using a special coating around insulin-producing cells to keep them safe from the immune system and help them work better after being transplanted.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $552,601 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK131716-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10927348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals 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 investigates a new method for islet transplantation aimed at treating type 1 diabetes (T1D) by using a specialized encapsulation technique. The approach involves creating a protective coating around islet cells to prevent immune rejection and enhance their function after transplantation. By utilizing a combination of biocompatible materials and immunomodulatory agents, the study seeks to improve the survival of transplanted islets and reduce the adverse effects associated with traditional immunosuppressive therapies. The research will be conducted using mouse models to evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative encapsulation method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved outcomes for patients with type 1 diabetes by enhancing the success of islet transplants and reducing the need for long-term immunosuppression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using encapsulation techniques for islet transplantation, but this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tse, Hubert M — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Tse, Hubert M
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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.