Understanding the link between psoriasis and diabetes

Role of IFN kappa in psoriasis-mediated diabetes development

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11089548

This research explores how psoriasis might increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11089548 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We know that people with psoriasis have a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes, and when both conditions are present, managing blood sugar becomes even harder. Our goal is to uncover the specific ways that psoriasis might lead to diabetes. We are focusing on a protein called interferon kappa (IFNκ), which is elevated in psoriasis and causes body-wide inflammation. By understanding how IFNκ contributes to this connection, we hope to find new ways to help patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals living with psoriasis who are concerned about their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients without psoriasis or type 2 diabetes are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or better manage type 2 diabetes in people with psoriasis.

How similar studies have performed: While the link between psoriasis and diabetes is known, the specific molecular mechanisms being explored in this project are novel and have not been fully tested.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.