How calorie restriction and stress affect insulin-producing cells in older adults
Official title: Beta cell adaptation mechanisms during caloric restriction and ER stress
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10997399 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the insulin-making cells in our bodies change when we eat differently or deal with stress, especially in older adults, to help find better ways to manage type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $495,127 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138141-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997399 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older, particularly those at risk for or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how insulin-producing beta cells adapt to changes in diet and stress, particularly in older adults. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind beta cell function and identity, especially during caloric restriction and the stress associated with aging. By examining the genetic and functional changes in these cells, the study aims to uncover how they can better respond to metabolic demands. This could lead to new insights into managing type 2 diabetes in older populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for type 2 diabetes, particularly in older adults, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding beta cell function under stress, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arrojo E Drigo, Rafael — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Arrojo E Drigo, Rafael
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.