Investigating how cell signaling affects the development and function of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
Official title: Cell signaling and transcription factors in pancreatic islet development and function
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11058414 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how certain signals and factors help create insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, with the goal of improving treatments for diabetes by making better replacement cells from human stem cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | April 6, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $248,999 |
| NIH project number | 5R00DK128537-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058414 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who may benefit from advancements in beta cell replacement therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have diabetes or those whose diabetes is well-managed without the need for islet replacement therapy may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind pancreatic islet development and function, particularly how cell signaling and transcription factors influence the formation of insulin-producing beta cells. By using in vivo models, the study aims to refine protocols for generating these cells from human pluripotent stem cells, which could lead to improved islet replacement therapies for diabetes. The research builds on existing knowledge from mouse studies to enhance the efficiency of producing mature beta cells for potential transplantation. Patients may benefit from advancements in diabetes treatment through better access to effective therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for diabetes by improving islet replacement therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to enhance beta cell production, but this specific methodology is still being refined.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lorberbaum, David — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lorberbaum, David
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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.