Understanding how specific immune cells contribute to Type 1 diabetes
Official title: PTPN22 controls the interrelationship of IL-21+ and FOXP3+ CD4 T cells in T1D
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11094891 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific immune cells might contribute to the development of Type 1 diabetes by examining their interactions in a mouse model, which could help us understand the disease better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $190,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180277-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094891 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes or those exhibiting beta-cell autoimmunity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 diabetes or other non-autoimmune forms of diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of certain immune cells in the development of Type 1 diabetes (T1D), focusing on how IL-21+ and FOXP3+ CD4 T cells interact. By using nonobese diabetic mice as a model, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells. The researchers will analyze the behavior of these immune cells and their impact on the disease process, which could lead to new insights into T1D pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals with Type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell interactions in autoimmune diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Yi-Guang — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Chen, Yi-Guang
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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.