Understanding Genetic Risks for Type 1 Diabetes
Project 2
This project aims to uncover how specific genetic differences increase the chance of developing type 1 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091584 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that many genetic factors contribute to type 1 diabetes, but we don't fully understand how they work together to cause the disease. This work focuses on how certain genetic changes lead to the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own cells, which is the first step in type 1 diabetes. Researchers are particularly interested in a gene called SH2B3 and how its variations might affect important cell signals that control immune responses. By using a special experimental system, we hope to learn exactly how these genetic differences contribute to the disease process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is most relevant to individuals with type 1 diabetes or those at high genetic risk for the condition, as well as their families.
Not a fit: Patients without type 1 diabetes or an interest in its genetic causes may not directly benefit from this specific basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of type 1 diabetes, potentially paving the way for new ways to predict, prevent, or treat the condition.
How similar studies have performed: While the field has identified many genetic risk factors, this project addresses specific knowledge gaps regarding the molecular mechanisms by which individual variants confer autoimmunity risk, suggesting a novel approach to a persistent problem.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mathews, Clayton E — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Mathews, Clayton E
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 below.