Understanding how immune cells mistakenly attack insulin-producing cells in diabetes
Official title: Beta-cell self-antigen recognition by diabetogenic CD8 T cells
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11043422 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called CD8 T cells attack the insulin-making cells in people with Type 1 diabetes, focusing on how these cells develop and become active, which could help us find better treatments for the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135968-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043422 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, particularly those experiencing recent onset of the disease.
✕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 role of autoreactive CD8 T cells in the destruction of insulin-producing beta-cells in Type 1 diabetes (T1D). It focuses on two critical stages in the life of these T cells: their development in the thymus and their activation in the body. By using advanced two-dimensional methods, the study aims to analyze how these T cells recognize beta-cell antigens and how this recognition changes during disease progression. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms behind T1D and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for Type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding T cell behavior in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Baoyu — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Liu, Baoyu
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.