Understanding genetic factors in Type 1 diabetes across different ancestries
Official title: Multi-Ancestry Genetic Analysis of Type 1 Diabetes and Related Conditions
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11143669 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes can help us understand the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes in people from different backgrounds, so we can better predict who might be at risk and find ways to delay or prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,894 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DK140643-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143669 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from diverse ancestral backgrounds who are at risk for Type 1 diabetes or have a family history of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to Type 1 diabetes or those with other forms of diabetes unrelated to autoimmune mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic risk factors associated with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) by developing a polygenic score that incorporates genetic variants from diverse ancestral backgrounds. The goal is to improve the prediction of T1D risk in individuals from various ethnicities, as current models primarily focus on European populations. By identifying genetic markers linked to T1D, the research aims to better understand who is at risk and potentially delay or prevent the onset of the disease. Patients may be involved in genetic testing to help refine these predictive models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate risk assessments for Type 1 diabetes, allowing for earlier interventions and better management of the condition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in developing polygenic scores for other conditions, but this approach for Type 1 diabetes across multiple ancestries is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deutsch, Aaron Jonathan — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Deutsch, Aaron Jonathan
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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.