Understanding how immune cells in the pancreas affect diabetes

Regulation of GPCR-mediated intercellular communication in islets

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11059251

This study is looking at how certain immune cells affect inflammation in the pancreas and how that might impact insulin production, especially in mice on a high-fat diet, to help find better ways to manage diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059251 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of immune cells, specifically macrophages, in the inflammation of pancreatic islets and how this inflammation impacts the function of insulin-producing beta cells. By studying mice that are fed a high-fat diet, the researchers aim to understand how a specific receptor, GPR92, influences these immune cells and their interaction with beta cells. The study employs advanced techniques such as computer simulations and genetic modifications to explore these relationships, which could lead to new insights into diabetes management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity and adult-onset diabetes who may benefit from improved understanding and treatment of their condition.

Not a fit: Patients without obesity or those with type 1 diabetes may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve insulin production and function in patients with obesity-related diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell roles in diabetes, but the specific focus on GPR92 in this context is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.