How tiny cellular 'tracks' help insulin-making cells release insulin
Microtubule Regulation of Pancreatic Beta Cell Function and Diabetes
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-11295784
This project looks at how tiny internal 'tracks' and motors inside insulin-producing beta cells deliver insulin, which could matter for people with type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11295784 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are watching insulin-producing beta cells in the lab to see how insulin-filled packets are moved to the cell surface. They focus on microtubules — the cell's tiny 'tracks' — and motor proteins that carry those packets, using high-resolution microscopes and cell experiments. Some work uses human and animal beta cells and molecular tools to change the tracks or motors and see the effects on insulin release. The aim is to find ways to improve how beta cells position insulin for release so blood sugar control could be better for people with type 2 diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with type 2 diabetes or people with low insulin secretion who are interested in research on improving insulin release are the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People whose diabetes is caused by autoimmune destruction of beta cells (type 1 diabetes) or whose condition is unrelated to beta cell insulin secretion are less likely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to boost insulin release from beta cells and improve blood sugar control for people with type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Past lab studies have shown microtubules affect insulin granule movement, but applying this knowledge toward treatments for type 2 diabetes remains early and largely experimental.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY — Nashville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KAVERINA, IRINA — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KAVERINA, IRINA
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