Investigating a genetic variant's role in diabetes and blood sugar levels based on sex
Official title: Examining how the novel S64F MAFA variant produces glucose intolerance or hypoglycemia in a sex-dependent manner
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11094752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific change in a gene affects blood sugar control differently in men and women, using mice to help us understand how it impacts insulin production, which could lead to better, personalized treatments for diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $158,436 |
| NIH project number | 5K08DK132507-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094752 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of diabetes or those experiencing glucose regulation issues, particularly those who are male or female with specific symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a genetic predisposition to diabetes or those who do not exhibit symptoms related to glucose intolerance or hypoglycemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how a specific genetic variant in the MAFA gene affects glucose regulation differently in men and women. By using a mouse model with the S64F MAFA mutation, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind glucose intolerance and hypoglycemia associated with this variant. The research focuses on understanding how this genetic change impacts insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which is crucial for developing new treatments for diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to personalized therapies based on their genetic makeup.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for diabetes that consider individual genetic differences.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in diabetes, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cha, Jeeyeon — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Cha, Jeeyeon
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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.