Exploring how different pancreatic tissues and genes interact in Type 1 diabetes
Official title: Uncovering the Interplay Among Pancreatic Tissue Types, Inflammation, and Genotypes in Type 1 Diabetes
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11005395 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the pancreas work together and respond to inflammation in people with Type 1 diabetes, using special cells from T1D patients to create mini pancreas models, with the goal of finding out more about what causes the damage to insulin-producing cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 2, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $265,838 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138469-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11005395 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 willing to participate in studies involving their pancreatic cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 diabetes or other non-autoimmune forms of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between various types of pancreatic tissues, inflammation, and genetic factors in Type 1 diabetes (T1D). By using induced pluripotent stem cells from T1D patients, the study aims to create organoids that mimic pancreatic functions. The researchers will analyze how these tissues respond to inflammation and how genetic variations influence immune responses and tissue interactions. This multidisciplinary approach seeks to uncover new insights into the mechanisms that lead to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Type 1 diabetes by targeting the underlying mechanisms of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding autoimmune diseases through similar approaches, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Millman, Jeffrey Robert — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Millman, Jeffrey Robert
Related research
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This study tests two treatment approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes who often don’t realize their blood sugar is getting too low, using a mix of technology and education in two large groups.
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A UK study tests two different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize and respond to low blood sugar by comparing a high-tech insulin system with targeted education.
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Researchers are studying how the surrounding tissue of the pancreas and its proteins influence insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes.
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Understanding how hypoglycemia awareness changes in adults with type 1 diabetes and how automated insulin delivery and exercise might help restore it
This study will look at adults with type 1 diabetes to see how their awareness of low blood sugar evolves over time and whether automated insulin delivery and high-intensity exercise can help restore that awareness.
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.