How a hormone may help protect insulin-producing cells in diabetes

The impact of cholecystokinin on pancreatic beta-cell survival through paracrine and pharmacologic signaling

NIH-funded research Wm S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hosp · NIH-10921186

This study is looking at how a hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK) might help protect the insulin-making cells in your pancreas from damage, especially for people with diabetes, like many Veterans, by figuring out how it works and finding new ways to keep those cells healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWm S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10921186 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone produced in the pancreas, in protecting insulin-producing beta cells from cell death in diabetes. The study aims to understand how CCK and its receptors can enhance the survival of these cells, particularly under stress conditions like obesity and inflammation. By exploring the signaling pathways involved, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies that could help maintain beta cell function and mass in patients with diabetes, especially among Veterans. The approach includes laboratory experiments on human islets to assess the effects of CCK on cell survival.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who may benefit from therapies aimed at preserving beta cell function.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those whose diabetes is not related to beta cell dysfunction may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that preserve insulin-producing cells, improving diabetes management and outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using hormonal signaling to protect beta cells, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
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.