Understanding Pancreatic Cell Communication in Diabetes
Alpha- to Beta-Cell Communication in Health and Disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11195143
This research explores how two types of cells in the pancreas, alpha and beta cells, communicate to control blood sugar, especially in people with adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11195143 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The pancreas has special cells, alpha and beta cells, that work together to manage your blood sugar. Beta cells make insulin, which lowers blood sugar, while alpha cells make glucagon, which raises it. This project looks at how these cells communicate and how glucagon might also help beta cells make more insulin, which is important for keeping blood sugar levels balanced after meals. We believe that improving this cell communication could be a natural way the body tries to cope with the increased insulin resistance seen in conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. By understanding these interactions better, we hope to find new ways to support the body's own ability to control blood sugar.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research may eventually inform future studies that could involve individuals with adult-onset diabetes, particularly those with obesity or insulin resistance.
Not a fit: Patients without adult-onset diabetes or related metabolic conditions would likely not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing blood sugar in people with adult-onset diabetes by enhancing the body's natural insulin production.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds on existing findings that show glucagon has more complex roles in metabolism than previously thought, with preliminary data from human subjects supporting the current hypothesis.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CAMPBELL, JONATHAN E — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CAMPBELL, JONATHAN E
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.
Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus