Investigating how certain protein modifications may trigger type 1 diabetes
Official title: Characterization of disulfide modified diabetogenic neoepitopes
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11115798 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in proteins might help activate immune cells that are involved in type 1 diabetes, and by understanding this process better, the researchers hope to find new ways to prevent or treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 20, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $456,731 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK137056-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115798 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, particularly those with specific genetic markers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or other forms of diabetes unrelated to autoimmune mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific changes in proteins, known as disulfide modifications, can lead to the activation of immune cells that contribute to type 1 diabetes (T1D). By studying these modifications in both mouse models and human samples, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind autoimmune responses in T1D. The approach involves analyzing how these modified proteins interact with immune cells, particularly CD4 T cells, which play a crucial role in the disease. This could provide insights into new ways to prevent or treat T1D by targeting these immune responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating type 1 diabetes by targeting the immune responses that drive the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding autoimmune responses in diabetes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dai, Shaodong — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Dai, Shaodong
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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.