Understanding Type 1 Diabetes through tiny particles from the pancreas
Micro-nanotechnologies for the analysis of islet-derived extracellular vesicles implicated in Type 1 Diabetes
This project looks at tiny particles released by pancreatic cells to find new ways to understand and detect Type 1 Diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124648 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells release tiny packages called extracellular vesicles (EVs) into the blood, which carry important molecular information. In Type 1 Diabetes, the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This work uses advanced technology to collect and analyze EVs specifically from pancreatic cells. By comparing EVs from healthy individuals and those with Type 1 Diabetes, we aim to discover unique molecular signals. These signals could help us better understand how the disease develops and progresses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work focuses on understanding disease mechanisms using samples, so direct patient participation in a clinical trial is not immediately applicable, but future studies may seek individuals with Type 1 Diabetes or healthy volunteers.
Not a fit: Patients not interested in contributing biological samples or participating in future diagnostic development may not directly benefit from this specific phase of the research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to diagnose Type 1 Diabetes earlier or monitor its progression, potentially improving patient care.
How similar studies have performed: The use of extracellular vesicles as biomarkers is a rapidly growing field, with promising results in various diseases, though their specific application to Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ng, Alphonsus — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Ng, Alphonsus
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.