Understanding how maternal obesity affects diabetes risk in children
Investigating the Downstream Mechanisms Contributing to Beta Cell Failure in Offspring Exposed to Maternal Obesity
This study looks at how being overweight during pregnancy might affect the chances of developing type 2 diabetes in children, especially boys, and aims to find ways to help protect them from this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10907644 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which maternal obesity influences the development of type 2 diabetes in offspring. It focuses on how factors like insulin resistance and inflammation contribute to beta cell dysfunction, particularly in male children. By using preclinical models, the study aims to uncover the molecular processes involved, including the role of specific proteins that may protect against diabetes. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for at-risk children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children born to mothers with obesity, particularly those who may be at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not born to obese mothers or who do not have a family history of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing type 2 diabetes in children born to obese mothers.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of maternal health on offspring diabetes risk, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kua, Kok Lim — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Kua, Kok Lim
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 below.