Modified beta cell proteins linked to type 1 diabetes and metabolism

Posttranslational Neoantigens in Autoimmunity and Metabolism in T1D

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11237962

This work looks at chemical changes to insulin-producing beta cell proteins that might trigger immune attacks and change metabolism in people with or at risk for type 1 diabetes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11237962 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Researchers will look for altered forms of beta cell proteins (called posttranslational modifications or PTMs) that can mark cells for immune attack. They will search for these modified proteins in human beta cells and in small particles called exosomes that beta cells release into the blood. Using a metabolic analysis method called MIMOSA, the team will measure how these protein changes affect glucose sensing and insulin secretion in beta cells. Some experiments will use human-derived samples and laboratory models to link specific modified proteins to immune responses and metabolic changes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with type 1 diabetes, those newly diagnosed, or individuals with autoantibodies or family history who are at increased risk would be the most relevant candidates.

Not a fit: People with non-autoimmune forms of diabetes (such as typical type 2 diabetes) or without risk factors for type 1 diabetes are unlikely to benefit directly from this work in the near term.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify early biomarkers and new molecular targets that lead to earlier diagnosis or therapies to prevent or treat type 1 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have found modified self-proteins targeted by B and T cells in type 1 diabetes, but connecting these changes to altered beta-cell metabolism and using MIMOSA is a newer, less-tested approach.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, Autoimmune disease biomarker

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.