How primary cilia affect hormone release in pancreatic islet cells
Official title: Paracrine regulation of islet cell function by primary cilia
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11077305 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny structures called primary cilia in the pancreas help different cells work together to manage hormone release and blood sugar levels, which could help us understand diabetes better.
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 | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $442,310 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138974-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077305 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with adult-onset diabetes or those experiencing issues with blood glucose regulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 1 diabetes or those without any pancreatic function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of primary cilia in the pancreatic islets, which are crucial for regulating hormone secretion and controlling blood glucose levels. The study aims to understand how these cilia facilitate communication between different types of islet cells, specifically alpha and beta cells, through hormonal signals. Using mouse models with specific deletion of primary cilia in islet cells, researchers will explore the mechanisms by which these structures influence hormone release and action. The findings could provide insights into the dysregulation of islet function observed in diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving blood glucose control in diabetes patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding cellular signaling mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in diabetes treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hughes, Jing Wang — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Hughes, Jing Wang
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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.