Using CAR T cells to target specific immune cells in Type 1 diabetes
Official title: Targeting cDC1 with CAR T cells to investigate their role and potential as a therapeutic target in Type 1 diabetes
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10996718 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called cDC1 contribute to Type 1 diabetes and testing a new treatment using special CAR T cells to target and reduce these cells, which could help prevent or manage the disease in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,623 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DK139666-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996718 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for developing Type 1 diabetes, particularly children and adolescents with a family history of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who already have established Type 1 diabetes or those with other autoimmune conditions unrelated to T1D may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of conventional type 1 dendritic cells (cDC1) in the development of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and explores a novel therapy using CAR T cells to target these immune cells. The approach involves creating CAR T cells that specifically deplete cDC1, which are known to contribute to the autoimmune response that damages insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. By blocking the activity of these dendritic cells, the research aims to prevent the onset of T1D in a mouse model that closely resembles human disease. If successful, this could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing or preventing T1D in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic approach to prevent or delay the onset of Type 1 diabetes in at-risk individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting immune cells for autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abousaway, Omar — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Abousaway, Omar
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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.