Exploring gut bacteria's role in type 1 diabetes and immune regulation

Identifying immunoregulatory gut bacteria in type 1 diabetes and autoimmunity

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11046568

This study is looking at how certain gut bacteria that are less common in people with type 1 diabetes can help the immune system work better, and it might lead to new ways to treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046568 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific gut bacteria, particularly those that are reduced in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D), affect the immune system's ability to regulate itself. By using germ-free mice and a strain of bacteria from the human oral cavity, the study examines how these bacteria can promote regulatory T cells, which are crucial for maintaining immune tolerance. The researchers aim to understand the relationship between these bacteria and the immune response in T1D, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who may benefit from improved immune regulation.

Not a fit: Patients with type 2 diabetes or other non-autoimmune conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that restore immune tolerance in patients with type 1 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut microbiome's influence on autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autoimmune DiabetesAutoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.