Using advanced imaging to study beta cell types in type 1 diabetes

Image based Spatial Transcriptomics to Identify Beta Cell Phenotypes in Type 1 Diabetes

NIH-funded research Purdue University · NIH-11057346

This study is looking at the different kinds of insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes to find out which ones might be safe from damage, with the hope of improving treatments for the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPurdue University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Lafayette, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057346 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the different types of beta cells in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using advanced imaging techniques. By employing single molecule Fluorescence In-situ Hybridization and artificial intelligence, the study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of RNA expression in pancreatic tissues. The goal is to identify unique characteristics of beta cells that may be protected from autoimmune destruction, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of T1D. Patients' pancreatic tissues from organ donors will be analyzed to uncover these cellular phenotypes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a long history of type 1 diabetes who may have preserved beta cell function.

Not a fit: Patients with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes or those without any remaining beta cell function may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into preserving beta cell function in type 1 diabetes, potentially improving treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using advanced imaging techniques to study cellular phenotypes, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

West Lafayette, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.