Improving the way proinsulin is processed to help manage Type 2 diabetes
Official title: Improving Proinsulin Folding to Ameliorate Type II Diabetes
Funded at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute · NIH-11085158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to help your body make insulin better by understanding how a protein called proinsulin folds, which could lead to new treatments for Type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | May 5, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $760,498 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK132689-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085158 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 1 diabetes or those who do not have insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the folding process of proinsulin, a precursor to insulin, to improve its production in the body. By investigating how proinsulin interacts with specific proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, the study aims to identify ways to prevent misfolding that can lead to insufficient insulin levels. The approach involves both laboratory studies and analysis of human islet cells to understand the mechanisms behind proinsulin folding and transport. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for Type 2 diabetes by improving insulin production.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin production.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving insulin production through similar mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaufman, Randal J. — Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
- Study coordinator: Kaufman, Randal J.
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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.