Understanding how immune cells attack insulin-producing cells in type 1 diabetes
Official title: Single Cell Genomics to Resolve Control of Immune Cell Function During Type 1 Diabetes
Funded at National Jewish Health · NIH-10875446 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells, called autoreactive T cells, contribute to type 1 diabetes by attacking the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, with the hope of finding new treatments to help prevent or reduce this harmful response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | National Jewish Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | June 26, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $243,594 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178618-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875446 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 high risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or other non-autoimmune related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific immune cells, particularly autoreactive T cells, in the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). By examining how these T cells interact with pancreatic islet cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells. Using advanced single-cell genomics techniques, researchers will analyze the cellular environment of individual islets to identify factors that influence T cell behavior. The goal is to develop targeted therapies that can prevent or mitigate the autoimmune response in T1D.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect insulin-producing cells and improve outcomes for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
National Jewish Health
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scott-Browne, James — National Jewish Health
- Study coordinator: Scott-Browne, James
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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.