Understanding how immune cells attack insulin-producing cells in Type 1 diabetes
Official title: Leveraging Human iPSC-derived beta-cells to Probe Antigen Specificity of Anti-islet Memory T Cells in T1D
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10770529 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at what parts of the immune system attack insulin-producing cells in people with Type 1 diabetes, using special lab-grown cells to help find ways to protect those cells and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $740,696 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135080-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10770529 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes who are experiencing progressive beta cell destruction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 diabetes or other forms of diabetes unrelated to autoimmune mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the specific antigens that trigger the immune response leading to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in individuals with Type 1 diabetes (T1D). By utilizing human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived beta cells, the study aims to identify which antigens are targeted by memory T cells during the progression of T1D. The researchers will employ advanced techniques such as MHC-II tetramers and single-cell assays to analyze T cell activation and specificity. The findings could inform new therapeutic strategies to protect beta cells from immune attack, potentially improving treatment options for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect insulin-producing cells in patients with Type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying immune targets in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teyton, Luc — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Teyton, Luc
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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.