Understanding how HNF1A affects pancreatic cells in diabetes
Comprehensive characterization of HNF1A-driven beta-cell heterogeneity
This work explores how a specific gene, HNF1A, influences the different types of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which is important for people with adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123504 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have different kinds of cells in the pancreas that make insulin, and we are learning that these cells are not all the same. This project looks closely at how a gene called HNF1A might be causing these differences among pancreatic beta-cells, especially in people with type 2 diabetes. We are using advanced techniques to study individual cells and create models from stem cells to see how HNF1A changes their function. This will help us understand its role in both early-onset diabetes (MODY3) and more common forms of diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but future studies stemming from this work may seek individuals with adult-onset diabetes or specific genetic variations related to HNF1A.
Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those whose condition is not related to pancreatic beta-cell function or HNF1A may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of diabetes development and potentially new ways to treat or prevent the disease by targeting specific beta-cell functions.
How similar studies have performed: While HNF1A mutations are known to cause a form of early-onset diabetes (MODY3), this project explores its role in common diabetes and beta-cell differences, which is a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Yan — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Li, Yan
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.