Investigating a protein's role in insulin release and diabetes
Official title: PITPNA in pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction and diabetes pathogenesis
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11060951 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PITPNA affects the cells in your pancreas that make insulin, with the goal of finding new ways to help those with adult-onset diabetes by improving insulin release and protecting these important cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $409,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135688-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060951 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with adult-onset diabetes or those experiencing insulin resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 1 diabetes or those without any form of diabetes may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, Phosphatidylinositol transfer protein alpha (PITPNA), affects the function of pancreatic beta-cells, which are crucial for insulin production. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind beta-cell dysfunction and death, particularly in the context of adult-onset diabetes. By examining how PITPNA regulates insulin granule formation and secretion, the research seeks to identify potential strategies to enhance insulin release and prevent cell destruction. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve insulin production and protect pancreatic beta-cells in diabetes patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding beta-cell dysfunction, but the specific role of PITPNA in this context is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Poy, Matthew Ng — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Poy, Matthew Ng
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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.