Understanding Immune Cell Control in Type 1 Diabetes
Mertk Mediated T Cell Suppression in the Pancreatic Islets During Type 1 Diabetes
This work explores how certain immune cells in the pancreas might help control the immune attack that causes type 1 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101145 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
In type 1 diabetes, the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. We are looking closely at specific immune cells, called myeloid cells, found in the pancreas of people with type 1 diabetes. Our goal is to understand how a particular signal, called Mertk, within these myeloid cells can calm down other immune cells that cause damage. By uncovering these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to protect the pancreas and slow down or stop the progression of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is not directly recruiting patients but focuses on understanding disease mechanisms relevant to individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients without type 1 diabetes or related autoimmune conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect insulin-producing cells by boosting the natural immune-calming processes in the pancreas.
How similar studies have performed: Evidence from mouse models and human samples suggests that myeloid cells play an important role in type 1 diabetes, and our preliminary findings support the role of Mertk signaling.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Friedman, Rachel S — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Friedman, Rachel S
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.