Using engineered stem cell-derived vesicles to treat type 1 diabetes
Official title: Engineered extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of type 1 diabetes
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-11058405 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new treatment using specially designed tiny particles from stem cells to help the immune system be kinder to insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes, aiming to improve current therapies for those who haven't found success with them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $572,947 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136890-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058405 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 who are newly diagnosed or have relatives at high risk for developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with type 2 diabetes or those who do not have an autoimmune component to their diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of engineered extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells to promote immune tolerance in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The approach focuses on enhancing the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint pathway, which is crucial for maintaining immune balance and preventing the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells. By genetically modifying these vesicles, the research aims to improve the efficacy of existing therapies, such as anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies, and address the limitations faced by patients who do not respond to current treatments. Patients may benefit from a novel therapeutic option that could lead to better management of their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that helps preserve insulin production and improve blood sugar control for patients with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar immune tolerance approaches, particularly using anti-CD3 therapies, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Ryang Hwa — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Lee, Ryang Hwa
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Technological and Educational Approaches to Restore Hypoglycemia Awareness in Type 1 Diabetes
A two-arm study in adults with type 1 diabetes tests whether high-tech glucose control plus education or targeted training can help people regain awareness of low blood sugar.
-
Techniques for restoring awareness of low blood sugar in adults with type 1 diabetes
A randomized trial compares different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize when their blood sugar is dipping so they can act quickly.
-
Treating impaired hypoglycemia awareness in type 1 diabetes with targeted education and technology
This study tests two treatment approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes who often don’t realize their blood sugar is getting too low, using a mix of technology and education in two large groups.
-
Helping people with type 1 diabetes regain awareness of dangerous lows
A UK study tests two different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize and respond to low blood sugar by comparing a high-tech insulin system with targeted education.
-
How the pancreas environment affects insulin-producing cells in type 1 diabetes
Researchers are studying how the surrounding tissue of the pancreas and its proteins influence insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes.
-
Understanding how hypoglycemia awareness changes in adults with type 1 diabetes and how automated insulin delivery and exercise might help restore it
This study will look at adults with type 1 diabetes to see how their awareness of low blood sugar evolves over time and whether automated insulin delivery and high-intensity exercise can help restore that awareness.
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.