Investigating the role of fat cells in heart disease for people with type 1 diabetes
Official title: Single-cell, multi-omic investigation of epicardial adipose and coronary endothelial dysfunction in type 1 diabetes
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11074419 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fat cells around the heart might play a role in heart disease for people with type 1 diabetes, and it aims to find out what changes happen in these cells that could lead to heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,008,750 |
| NIH project number | 1U01DK142338-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074419 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, particularly those experiencing cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without type 1 diabetes or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how fat cells around the heart, known as epicardial adipose tissue, contribute to heart disease in individuals with type 1 diabetes. By analyzing samples from a specialized tissue bank, the study aims to identify specific cellular changes and inflammatory signals that may lead to coronary artery dysfunction. The researchers will use advanced techniques to profile these cells at a single-cell level and explore how diabetes affects their function. Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind heart disease in type 1 diabetes and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating heart disease in patients with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of adipose tissue in cardiovascular diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Majithia, Amit — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Majithia, Amit
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding heart disease in type 1 diabetes through fat and blood vessel cells
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A UK study tests two different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize and respond to low blood sugar by comparing a high-tech insulin system with targeted education.
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.