Understanding how crinophagy in beta-cells contributes to autoimmune responses in diabetes
Official title: The role of beta-cell crinophagy in generating diabetogenic neoepitopes
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11092253 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a process in our cells that breaks down extra proteins might be linked to the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes, and it hopes to find new ways to understand and possibly improve treatment for this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $611,650 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134437-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092253 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes or those at risk of developing autoimmune conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with autoimmune diseases unrelated to type 1 diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of crinophagy, a cellular process in which excess secretory proteins are broken down, in the development of autoimmune responses in type 1 diabetes. By examining how crinophagic bodies produce neoepitopes, or new antigenic determinants, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that trigger autoreactive T cell responses. The research employs advanced techniques like immunopeptidomics to analyze the peptide segments derived from crinosomes, which are crucial for understanding the autoimmune attack on insulin-producing beta-cells. This could lead to insights into the pathogenic elements that drive autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on crinophagy and neoepitopes in type 1 diabetes is relatively novel, similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding autoimmune mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wan, Xiaoxiao — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wan, Xiaoxiao
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.