Investigating immune system abnormalities in type 1 diabetes using humanized mouse models
Official title: Understanding thymic epithelial and hematopoietic stem cell-intrinsic immune abnormalities driving T1D in optimized HIS mouse models
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11059359 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the immune system works in people with type 1 diabetes by creating special mice that have immune systems similar to those of T1D patients, so researchers can learn more about the disease and find better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,207,770 |
| NIH project number | 1UG3DK142184-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059359 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and healthy volunteers willing to donate stem cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other autoimmune diseases or those not diagnosed with type 1 diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the immune system's role in type 1 diabetes (T1D) by creating humanized mouse models that mimic the immune systems of T1D patients. The researchers will use hematopoietic stem cells from volunteers to develop personalized immune systems in mice, allowing them to study how specific genetic factors contribute to T1D. By examining the interactions between T cells, B cells, and other immune components, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind autoimmune responses in T1D. The ultimate goal is to develop new therapeutic strategies based on these insights.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using humanized mouse models to study autoimmune diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sykes, Megan — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Sykes, Megan
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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.