Understanding how leptin affects insulin and glucagon secretion in diabetes
Official title: Leptin regulation of delta cell function
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10908707 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called leptin affects special cells in the pancreas that help control blood sugar levels, with the goal of finding new ways to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $451,791 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136694-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908707 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who are experiencing difficulties in managing their blood glucose levels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 1 diabetes or those without any form of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of delta cells in the pancreas, which are crucial for regulating insulin and glucagon secretion. It focuses on how the hormone leptin influences these cells and their ability to maintain glucose balance in the body. By studying the mechanisms of leptin's action on delta cells, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for managing type 2 diabetes. The approach includes both human and mouse islet studies to understand the cellular responses to leptin.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding hormonal regulation of pancreatic function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cox, Richard a — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Cox, Richard a
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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.