Investigating immune system abnormalities in type 1 diabetes using humanized mouse models

Understanding thymic epithelial and hematopoietic stem cell-intrinsic immune abnormalities driving T1D in optimized HIS mouse models

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11059359

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059359 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and healthy volunteers willing to donate stem cells.

Not a fit: Patients with other autoimmune diseases or those not diagnosed with type 1 diabetes may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.