Investigating a new way to increase insulin-producing beta cells in diabetes
Official title: GABP is a novel regulator of beta cell metabolism and proliferation
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11031003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to help people with type 1 diabetes grow more insulin-producing cells by exploring a special protein called GABP, which could help improve blood sugar control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 8, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $166,524 |
| NIH project number | 7R03DK135458-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031003 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 experiencing challenges with insulin management.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or those who do not have diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how to regenerate insulin-producing beta cells in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The team is exploring a specific transcription factor, GABP, which may play a crucial role in the metabolism and proliferation of these cells. By using a model that disrupts the leptin receptor, they aim to identify methods to expand beta cell mass, potentially leading to improved glucose control for patients. The approach involves studying how GABP functions in human islets and its impact on cellular processes essential for cell growth and energy production.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore insulin production in patients with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting GABP is novel, previous research has shown promise in similar strategies aimed at beta cell regeneration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cox, Richard a — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Cox, Richard a
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.