Investigating how cytokines affect pancreatic beta-cell function in diabetes
Official title: GRASP55 Regulates Pancreatic Beta-cell Golgi Structure and Function During Cytokine Stress
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11076621 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the body can affect the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which is important for people with Type 1 Diabetes, and aims to find ways to help protect these cells from damage during the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $34,702 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK139619-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076621 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition due to autoimmune factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 Diabetes or other forms of diabetes unrelated to autoimmune processes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the impact of proinflammatory cytokines on the structure and function of pancreatic beta-cells, which are crucial for insulin production. The study aims to explore how these cytokines disrupt the Golgi apparatus within beta-cells, leading to early defects in their ability to secrete insulin. By examining the role of a specific protein, GRASP55, the researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the progression of Type 1 Diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies to protect beta-cell function during autoimmune attacks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that preserve pancreatic beta-cell function in patients with Type 1 Diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cytokine effects on beta-cell function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blom, Sandra — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Blom, Sandra
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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.