Nanogels that deliver insulin based on glucose levels
Official title: Phenylboronic acid-based nanogels for onset-controllable glucose-regulated insulin delivery
Funded at College of Staten Island · NIH-10290695 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to deliver insulin that automatically adjusts based on your blood sugar levels, using tiny gels that act like your body's natural insulin-producing cells, making it easier for people with diabetes to manage their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | College of Staten Island NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 24, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $476,249 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DK127360-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10290695 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes, particularly those who require insulin therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have diabetes or those who manage their condition without insulin may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of insulin delivery system using phenylboronic acid-based nanogels that can automatically adjust insulin release based on real-time glucose levels in the bloodstream. The approach involves creating nanogels that mimic the function of pancreatic beta cells, which naturally regulate insulin. By using a special polymer matrix, these nanogels are designed to respond to changes in glucose concentration, allowing for precise insulin delivery with minimal patient intervention. This innovative system aims to improve diabetes management and enhance patient quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and user-friendly insulin delivery system for diabetes patients.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown promise in developing responsive drug delivery systems, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
College of Staten Island
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Shuiqin — College of Staten Island
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Shuiqin
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.