Understanding how a protein affects insulin-producing cells during pregnancy
The role of Nrf2 in beta cell expansion during pregnancy
This study is looking at how a protein called Nrf2 helps the body grow more insulin-producing cells during pregnancy, which is important for keeping blood sugar levels healthy and preventing issues like gestational diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11223594 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called Nrf2 in the expansion of insulin-producing beta cells during pregnancy. As pregnancy progresses, the body requires more insulin to manage increased glucose levels, and this study aims to understand how Nrf2 influences the growth and survival of these cells. By examining changes in beta cell function and mass in pregnant mice, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could prevent complications like gestational diabetes. The findings may provide insights into how to better manage blood sugar levels in pregnant individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those at risk for gestational diabetes or with advanced maternal age.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without risk factors for gestational diabetes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing gestational diabetes and improving maternal health during pregnancy.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on Nrf2's protective effects on beta cells in diabetes, this specific investigation into its role during pregnancy is novel.
Where this research is happening
Duarte, United States
- Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope — Duarte, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alterzon, Sharon — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Alterzon, Sharon
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.