Investigating the effects of activating a specific protein in insulin-producing cells
Benefits and harms of activating ATF6 in beta cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-11002653
This study is looking at how a protein called ATF6 can help the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas survive stress and possibly make more insulin, which could lead to new treatments for diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11002653 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of the ATF6 protein in pancreatic beta cells, which are crucial for insulin production and diabetes management. The study aims to understand how activating ATF6 can help these cells survive stress and potentially increase their numbers and insulin output. Researchers will use innovative tools to activate ATF6 in controlled settings, both in laboratory conditions and in live mice, to observe the effects on beta cell function and health. The goal is to find a balance between beneficial and harmful effects of ATF6 activation to develop new treatments for diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with adult-onset diabetes, including both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients with diabetes not related to beta cell dysfunction or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance insulin production and improve the health of pancreatic beta cells in diabetes patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting cellular stress responses, although this specific activation of ATF6 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ALONSO, LAURA C — WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV
- Study coordinator: ALONSO, LAURA C
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 below.
Conditions: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus