Improving islet transplantation for type 1 diabetes with local immunosuppression
Official title: Vascularized Islet transplantation NICHE with local immunosuppression for the treatment of type 1 diabetes
Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-11085226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with type 1 diabetes by using a special device called the NICHE that supports transplanted islet cells, aiming to improve their success and help keep blood sugar levels stable.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $697,245 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK132104-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who are considering islet transplantation as a treatment option.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have type 1 diabetes or those who are not candidates for islet transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to islet transplantation for patients with type 1 diabetes by using a specialized device called the NICHE. The NICHE is designed to provide a supportive environment for transplanted islet cells, including a vascularized system that supplies essential nutrients and oxygen. It also delivers immunosuppressive drugs directly to the transplant site, reducing the need for systemic immunosuppression and its associated side effects. The goal is to enhance the long-term success of islet transplants and help patients achieve stable blood sugar levels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer islet transplantation options for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using localized immunosuppression and vascularized systems for cell transplantation, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grattoni, Alessandro — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Grattoni, Alessandro
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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.