Understanding how to improve the development of insulin-producing cells from stem cells
Official title: Gene regulatory programs driving metabolic maturation ofhuman pluripotent stem cell derived beta-cells
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11207585 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to grow better insulin-producing cells from stem cells to help people with Type 1 diabetes, focusing on what helps these cells develop properly and handle stress, so that one day they can be used in treatments to restore insulin production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $156,000 |
| NIH project number | 7R03DK138495-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11207585 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Type 1 diabetes who may benefit from innovative cell replacement therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 diabetes or other forms of diabetes unrelated to autoimmune destruction of beta-cells may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the processes that lead to the maturation of insulin-producing beta-cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells, which are crucial for treating Type 1 diabetes. The team aims to identify the environmental factors and cellular mechanisms that influence the development of these cells, particularly focusing on how they respond to metabolic stress. By creating a better model of beta-cell maturation, the research seeks to enhance the functionality of these cells for potential therapeutic applications. Patients may benefit from advancements in cell replacement therapies that could restore insulin production in those with Type 1 diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for Type 1 diabetes by enhancing the functionality of insulin-producing cells derived from stem cells.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell-derived beta-cells for diabetes treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Han — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Han
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.