Understanding how T cells interact with self-antigens in type 1 diabetes
Biophysical parameters of self-reactive TCR engagement in T1D
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 ID | NIH-11042231 on NIH RePORTER |
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.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, particularly those with specific genetic markers related to autoimmune susceptibility.
Not a fit: 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.
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 performed: 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
Salt Lake City, United States
- 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 below.