Understanding how T cells interact with self-antigens in type 1 diabetes
Official title: Biophysical parameters of self-reactive TCR engagement in T1D
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11042231 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how T cells, which are important for our immune system, interact with certain proteins in people with type 1 diabetes compared to healthy individuals, to help us understand what goes wrong in the immune response and find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $646,169 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI172210-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042231 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, particularly those with specific genetic markers related to autoimmune susceptibility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 1 diabetes who do not have the relevant genetic markers or those with other autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between T cell receptors and self-antigens in the context of type 1 diabetes (T1D). By using advanced technologies, the study measures how strongly T cells bind to these antigens and how long these interactions last. The goal is to understand the differences in T cell behavior between healthy individuals and those with autoimmune conditions, particularly focusing on the forces involved in these interactions. This could lead to new insights into how T cells contribute to the development of T1D and how they might be manipulated for therapeutic purposes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for type 1 diabetes by enhancing our understanding of T cell behavior in autoimmune conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell interactions in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bettini, Maria — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Bettini, Maria
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.