Understanding how microRNA146a affects immune responses in type 1 diabetes
Official title: Investigating the regulation of T cell-mediated autoimmunity in type 1 diabetes by microRNA146a
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11162640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tiny molecule called microRNA146a affects the immune system in kids with type 1 diabetes, to see if blocking it could help protect their insulin-producing cells and slow down the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DK143695-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11162640 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 15 years of age who have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients over 15 years of age or those with other forms of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microRNA146a in the regulation of T cell-mediated autoimmunity in type 1 diabetes (T1D), particularly in children under 15 years old. The study aims to understand how this microRNA influences the immune response that leads to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. By using specialized mouse models, researchers will explore the potential of inhibiting microRNA146a as a new therapeutic approach to prevent or slow down the progression of T1D. This could lead to treatments that not only manage blood sugar levels but also address the underlying autoimmune processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent the destruction of insulin-producing cells in children with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using microRNA modulation to influence autoimmune responses, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Appolonia, Corynn — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Appolonia, Corynn
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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.