Understanding how proteins control pancreatic cell growth
Official title: Structure dictates dynamic topology and function of pancreatic transcriptional regulators
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11030329 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called Pdx1 helps the cells in your pancreas that make insulin grow and work better, which could lead to new ways to improve insulin production for people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | February 7, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $620,400 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK127270-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030329 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes, particularly those interested in novel therapeutic approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with diabetes types that do not involve beta cell dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that regulate the growth of pancreatic beta cells, which are crucial for insulin production and blood glucose regulation. It focuses on the role of a specific protein, Pdx1, and how its structure and behavior within the cell influence beta cell development and function. By examining the three-dimensional organization of transcriptional networks, the study aims to uncover how these proteins interact and affect cell growth and survival. Patients with diabetes may benefit from insights gained about how to enhance beta cell mass and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for increasing beta cell mass and improving insulin production in diabetes patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding transcriptional regulation in beta cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stoffers, Doris a — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Stoffers, Doris 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.