Understanding how pancreatic cells adapt in diabetes
Official title: Mechanisms of islet compensation for β-cell mass deficiency in diabetes
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11048847 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the pancreas adjust when there aren’t enough insulin-producing cells in people with type 2 diabetes, and it aims to understand how these changes might help keep blood sugar levels in check.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $718,912 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK139640-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048847 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who may benefit from improved insulin regulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 1 diabetes or those without any form of diabetes may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which pancreatic alpha-cells adapt to the loss of beta-cell mass in type 2 diabetes. It explores how increased secretion of glucagon from alpha-cells may help maintain insulin secretion and regulate blood sugar levels. Using a novel mouse model that lacks the ability for beta-cells to replicate, the study examines the interactions between different cell types in the pancreas and their roles in glycemic control. Advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing will be employed to analyze changes in cell function and communication.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance insulin secretion in diabetes patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding pancreatic cell interactions, but this specific approach is novel and aims to uncover new mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merrins, Matthew J. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Merrins, Matthew J.
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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.