Using Cornus officinalis to prevent type 1 diabetes
Official title: C. officinalis induction of Nrf2 inhibiting type 1 diabetes
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11061078 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a traditional plant called Cornus officinalis might help protect the insulin-making cells in people with type 1 diabetes, with the hope of finding new ways to improve their health and insulin production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | March 25, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $331,231 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AT011907-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061078 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, particularly those experiencing early stages of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or those who do not have autoimmune-related diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of Cornus officinalis, a plant used in traditional medicine, to inhibit the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells in type 1 diabetes. The study focuses on understanding how this plant can activate a specific cellular pathway (Keap1/Nrf2) that protects these cells from damage. By exploring the effects of Cornus officinalis on cell viability and antioxidant gene expression, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for managing type 1 diabetes. Patients may benefit from novel treatments that could improve their insulin production and overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that help preserve insulin production in patients with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using natural compounds like Cornus officinalis for protective effects in diabetes models, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burkhardt, Brant Roger — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Burkhardt, Brant Roger
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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.