Improving pancreatic islet transplants for type 1 diabetes
Genome editing of human pancreatic islets to withstand ischemic injuries and promote immune evasion
This study is looking for ways to make islet transplants better for people with type 1 diabetes by using gene editing to help the transplanted cells survive longer and avoid being rejected by the body, which could mean fewer medications needed after the transplant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11085278 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing pancreatic beta cell replacement therapies for individuals with type 1 diabetes by using gene editing techniques. The team aims to improve the survival of transplanted islets and reduce immune rejection, which are major challenges in islet transplantation. They will explore methods to either delete negative regulators or enhance positive regulators of beta cell survival, utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR and high-throughput screening. This approach seeks to make islet transplants more effective and reduce the need for immunosuppressive drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with type 1 diabetes who are considering or are eligible for pancreatic islet transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients with type 2 diabetes or those who do not qualify for islet transplantation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective islet transplants, allowing patients with type 1 diabetes to achieve better blood sugar control and potentially reduce their dependence on insulin.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in improving islet transplant outcomes through various strategies, indicating that this approach could build on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tang, Qizhi — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Tang, Qizhi
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.