Using synthetic hydrogels to improve islet transplantation for diabetes treatment
Official title: Synthetic Hydrogels for Islet Vascularization and Engraftment
Funded at Georgia Institute of Technology · NIH-10871671 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special gels can help improve islet transplants for people with Type 1 diabetes by encouraging better blood flow and reducing inflammation, which could lead to better results and easier diabetes management for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2023 |
| Project end | August 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK135375-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10871671 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Type 1 diabetes who are considering or have been evaluated for islet transplantation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Type 2 diabetes or those who are not candidates for islet transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the success of islet transplantation for Type 1 diabetes by using synthetic hydrogels to promote blood vessel growth around transplanted islets. The approach aims to address the challenges of inflammation and poor blood supply that currently limit the effectiveness of islet transplants. By delivering growth factors through these hydrogels, the researchers hope to create a more favorable environment for islet survival and function. Patients may benefit from improved transplant outcomes and potentially better management of their diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective islet transplants, allowing patients with Type 1 diabetes to achieve better insulin independence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials for enhancing islet transplantation, indicating that this approach could be a viable solution.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quizon, Michelle — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Quizon, Michelle
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.