Understanding how certain proteins and mitochondria affect insulin-producing cells in diabetes
Official title: Elucidating how transcription factors MAFA and MAFB and mitochondrial activity control human β cell identity and function
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11035231 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins and energy production in cells affect the insulin-making cells in people with Type 2 diabetes, hoping to find ways to help these cells work better again.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $152,453 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DK133533-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035231 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes who are experiencing issues with insulin secretion.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 1 diabetes or those without any form of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific transcription factors, MAFA and MAFB, and mitochondrial activity in maintaining the identity and function of insulin-producing beta cells in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. By examining how these factors contribute to the loss of beta cell function, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to impaired insulin secretion. The approach includes analyzing gene expression and mitochondrial function in human beta cell models to identify potential therapeutic targets for restoring beta cell identity and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve insulin production and secretion in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mitochondrial function in beta cell health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walker, Emily M — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Walker, Emily M
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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.