Investigating how polyamines and hypusine affect beta-cell function in diabetes
Official title: The Role of Polyamines and Hypusine in Beta-Cell Dysfunction
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11003775 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain natural compounds affect the health of insulin-producing cells in the body, which could help us find new ways to protect these cells and prevent type 1 diabetes in people who are at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $547,710 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135832-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003775 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or those without any form of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of polyamines and hypusine in the dysfunction of beta-cells, which are crucial for insulin production. By examining how these compounds influence the response of beta-cells to stress and inflammation, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to type 1 diabetes. The study will utilize both mouse and human models to explore how manipulating the polyamine/hypusine pathway can protect beta-cells from damage. If successful, this could lead to new therapeutic strategies to preserve beta-cell function in individuals at risk for diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect beta-cells and prevent or delay the onset of type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting the polyamine/hypusine pathway for protecting beta-cells, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tersey, Sarah a. — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Tersey, Sarah a.
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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.