Improving blood vessel function in people with type 1 diabetes
Official title: Therapeutic Strategies for Microvascular Dysfunction in Type 1 Diabetes
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10983300 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blood flow problems in people with type 1 diabetes can affect their heart health, and it will test new treatments to help improve circulation and overall fitness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,031 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DK131327-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983300 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults and youth diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who experience issues related to blood vessel function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without type 1 diabetes or those with advanced cardiovascular disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how microvascular dysfunction affects individuals with type 1 diabetes and explores potential treatments to improve blood flow and overall cardiovascular health. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction, which are common in type 1 diabetes. By examining the role of oxidative stress and testing adjuvant therapies like GLP-1 receptor agonists, the research aims to enhance muscle microvascular perfusion and cardiorespiratory fitness. Patients may be involved in trials assessing these new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cardiovascular health and fitness for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using GLP-1 receptor agonists to improve vascular function in related conditions, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Love, Kaitlin M — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Love, Kaitlin M
Related research
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This study tests two treatment approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes who often don’t realize their blood sugar is getting too low, using a mix of technology and education in two large groups.
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A UK study tests two different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize and respond to low blood sugar by comparing a high-tech insulin system with targeted education.
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Researchers are studying how the surrounding tissue of the pancreas and its proteins influence insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes.
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Understanding how hypoglycemia awareness changes in adults with type 1 diabetes and how automated insulin delivery and exercise might help restore it
This study will look at adults with type 1 diabetes to see how their awareness of low blood sugar evolves over time and whether automated insulin delivery and high-intensity exercise can help restore that awareness.
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.