Investigating viral insulin-like peptides and their effects on insulin and growth factor systems in mammals
Official title: Viral insulin-like peptides and their unique activities on mammalian insulin/IGF-1 system
Funded at Boston College · NIH-11012364 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viral proteins that act like insulin might help us understand and improve treatments for conditions like growth disorders and cancer by finding new ways to block a key receptor in our bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chestnut Hill, United States) |
| Project start | January 17, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $485,332 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK132674-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012364 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with growth disorders such as acromegaly, adult-onset diabetes, or those affected by cancers associated with IGF-1.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to insulin or IGF-1 systems may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how viral insulin-like peptides (VILPs) interact with the insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) systems in mammals. By examining the unique activities of these peptides, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that could lead to the development of novel inhibitors for IGF-1 receptors, which are crucial in various diseases including growth disorders and cancer. Patients may benefit from insights gained through in vitro and in vivo assays that characterize the function of these peptides. The research seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding IGF-1 regulation and its implications for health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions related to abnormal IGF-1 production, including certain growth disorders and cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the IGF-1 system, but this approach using viral insulin-like peptides is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Altindis, Emrah — Boston College
- Study coordinator: Altindis, Emrah
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.