Investigating how Unc119b affects blood sugar regulation
Official title: Role and mechanism of Unc119b in the regulation of glucose homeostasis
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11042657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Unc119b to see how it can help manage blood sugar levels in people with type II diabetes, and it's testing new compounds that might improve insulin sensitivity without the side effects of current medications, aiming to find better treatment options for those struggling with insulin resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| 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 | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $557,879 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK138932-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042657 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with type II diabetes or those experiencing insulin resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type I diabetes or those not affected by insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called Unc119b in managing blood sugar levels, particularly in the context of type II diabetes. The study employs advanced techniques to identify new compounds that can enhance insulin sensitivity without the harmful side effects associated with current medications. By using live cell assays, researchers are exploring how these compounds can improve glucose uptake in tissues, potentially leading to better treatment options for patients with insulin resistance. The findings may reveal new therapeutic targets that could help reverse diabetes-related complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer and more effective treatments for type II diabetes, improving blood sugar control for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for improving insulin sensitivity, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sebag, Julien Albert — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Sebag, Julien Albert
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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.