Modifying insulin peptides to prevent Type 1 diabetes

Tuning peptide specifities for T cell tolerance in Type 1 diabetes

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11085064

This study is looking at how changing certain parts of insulin can help stop Type 1 diabetes by influencing the immune system, and it's being tested in mice to find new ways to protect people from this condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11085064 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how altering specific insulin peptides can help prevent Type 1 diabetes by modifying T cell responses. The study uses a mouse model to explore how changes in the insulin gene can protect against autoimmune reactions that lead to diabetes. By creating a 'super agonist' version of insulin peptides, the researchers aim to understand how these modifications affect T cell behavior and potentially lead to new treatments for patients. The approach focuses on the interactions between insulin peptides and immune cells, which are crucial in the development of Type 1 diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for developing Type 1 diabetes, including those with a family history of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients who already have established Type 1 diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent or delay the onset of Type 1 diabetes in at-risk individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using modified peptides to alter immune responses in autoimmune diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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

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.