Investigating how the surrounding protein structure affects insulin production in type 1 diabetes.
Official title: The role of the peri-islet extracellular matrix in islet function and the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes
Funded at Colorado School of Mines · NIH-10896213 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the support structure around insulin-producing cells in the pancreas changes during type 1 diabetes and how these changes affect the cells' ability to survive and work properly, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve insulin production and overall function for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado School of Mines NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Golden, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $47,106 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK132926-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896213 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who are experiencing challenges with insulin regulation.
✕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 the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding pancreatic islets in type 1 diabetes (T1D). It examines how changes in this protein scaffold, particularly during immune cell infiltration, impact the survival and function of insulin-producing beta cells. The study employs innovative materials to mimic the ECM and investigates the interactions between beta cells and immune cells to uncover mechanisms that may lead to improved insulin secretion and islet function. By exploring these cellular interactions, the research aims to provide insights into the pathogenesis of T1D.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance insulin production and preserve beta cell function in patients with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: While some studies have explored the role of the ECM in diabetes, this research takes a novel approach by focusing specifically on the interactions between beta cells and immune cells in the context of T1D.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado School of Mines
Golden, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johansen, Chelsea Garcia — Colorado School of Mines
- Study coordinator: Johansen, Chelsea Garcia
Related research
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Researchers are studying how the surrounding tissue of the pancreas and its proteins influence insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes.
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Understanding how hypoglycemia awareness changes in adults with type 1 diabetes and how automated insulin delivery and exercise might help restore it
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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.