Understanding how islet cells communicate and adapt in diabetes

Regulation of spatial organization and cell-cell communication in the islet of Langerhans

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11049555

This study is looking at how tiny clusters of cells in your pancreas, called islets, work to produce insulin and how they can grow and communicate better, especially for people with type 2 diabetes, to help improve their health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11049555 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the islets of Langerhans, which are crucial for insulin production and regulation in the body. It focuses on how these islets can expand and communicate effectively to meet the body's insulin demands, particularly in the context of type 2 diabetes. The study explores the Slit-Robo signaling pathway, which may play a key role in maintaining the three-dimensional structure and function of these islets. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new strategies to promote islet health and function in diabetic patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes or those already diagnosed with the condition.

Not a fit: Patients with type 1 diabetes or those who do not have any form of insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance insulin production and prevent or manage diabetes more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding islet function and communication, but this specific approach focusing on the Slit-Robo pathway is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.