Understanding how pregnancy affects insulin-producing cells in the pancreas

Pregnancy-Specific Mechanisms Regulating Beta-Cell Proliferation and Mass

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10800697

This study looks at how pregnancy affects the insulin-making cells in the pancreas and what happens when things go wrong, like in gestational diabetes, to find ways to help manage diabetes better for moms during and after pregnancy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10800697 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which pregnancy influences the growth and function of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. It focuses on understanding how these cells adapt during pregnancy and what goes wrong in cases of gestational diabetes. By studying the role of specific genes and signaling pathways, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving beta cell function in diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better management of diabetes during and after pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who are at risk of or diagnosed with gestational diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with pre-existing diabetes unrelated to pregnancy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gestational diabetes and better long-term health outcomes for mothers and their children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding beta cell dynamics during pregnancy, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.