Understanding how COVID-19 affects insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
Official title: Mentoring Emerging Researchers at CHLA (MERCH-LA)
Funded at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles · NIH-10925425 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how COVID-19 might affect the cells in your pancreas that make insulin, which could help us understand why some people get diabetes after being infected with the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $98,506 |
| NIH project number | 5K26DK138380-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925425 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced COVID-19 and are at risk for developing diabetes, particularly those with a history of glucose regulation issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with COVID-19 or those without any risk factors for diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of COVID-19 on pancreatic beta cells, which are crucial for insulin production and glucose regulation. By using unique animal models, the study aims to explore how SARS-CoV2 infection may directly harm these cells, potentially leading to diabetes. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze changes in beta cell function and metabolism following infection, providing insights into the relationship between COVID-19 and diabetes. The findings could help clarify the mechanisms behind acute hyperglycemia and other diabetes-related complications in COVID-19 patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of diabetes that may arise after COVID-19 infection.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is innovative, there is emerging literature suggesting that COVID-19 may have significant effects on metabolic health, indicating a need for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Georgia, Senta K — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Georgia, Senta K
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.