NIH-funded research Sbir 2 grant

Targeting a new signaling pathway to improve treatment for obesity-related diabetes

Official title: Targeting SWELL1 Signaling to Treat Obesity-Induced Type 2 Diabetes

Funded at Senseion Therapeutics, INC. · NIH-10490426 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a new way to help people with Type 2 diabetes by testing a special compound that could improve how their body handles insulin and glucose, which might lead to better blood sugar control and fewer complications.

More Diabetes research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSenseion Therapeutics, INC.
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project startSeptember 17, 2021
Project endJuly 31, 2025
Funding year2022
Award (this year)$990,929
NIH project number5R44DK121598-03
Project IDNIH-10490426 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with obesity-related Type 2 diabetes who struggle with insulin sensitivity and glucose management.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have Type 2 diabetes or those with other forms of diabetes unrelated to obesity may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel ion channel signaling complex called SWELL1, which plays a crucial role in regulating insulin sensitivity and secretion in the body. By using a small molecule modulator, SN-401, the research aims to enhance the function of SWELL1, potentially improving glucose metabolism and insulin response in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The approach includes both laboratory studies and animal models to assess the effectiveness of this treatment in normalizing glucose levels and reducing complications associated with diabetes. Patients may benefit from a new therapeutic option that targets the underlying mechanisms of their condition.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that improves insulin sensitivity and glucose control in patients with obesity-induced Type 2 diabetes.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar signaling pathways for diabetes treatment, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Senseion Therapeutics, INC.
    Saint Louis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lerner, Daniel J — Senseion Therapeutics, INC.
  • Study coordinator: Lerner, Daniel J

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.