How polyamines and hypusine affect insulin-producing beta cells
The Role of Polyamines and Hypusine in Beta-Cell Dysfunction
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11249190
This project looks at whether changing levels of natural molecules called polyamines and hypusine can protect insulin-producing beta cells in adults at risk for autoimmune (type 1) diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11249190 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers will use both mouse models and human cell samples to see how polyamines and hypusine change the way stressed insulin-producing beta cells respond. They will block key enzymes in this pathway using genetic tools and small molecules and then measure signs of ER stress, protein production, and cell survival. The team will identify which specific proteins are made differently when the pathway is altered and how that affects inflammation-related damage. Findings could point to new ways to preserve beta-cell function and slow or prevent autoimmune diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with early or recent-onset autoimmune type 1 diabetes or those identified as at high risk for type 1 diabetes would be the most likely candidates to participate or benefit.
Not a fit: People with long-standing diabetes, primarily type 2 diabetes without autoimmune beta-cell injury, or those outside the adult age range may not receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to therapies that protect beta cells and reduce or delay onset of type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Some laboratory and animal studies suggest blocking this pathway can reduce beta-cell stress and death, but the approach is still early-stage and not yet proven in people.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TERSEY, SARAH A. — UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: TERSEY, SARAH A.
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 below.
Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus