Using tiny ultrasound agents to diagnose and treat type 1 diabetes
Official title: Submicron ultrasound contrast agents as diagnostic agents and therapeutic vehicles in type 1 diabetes
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10873718 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help people at risk of type 1 diabetes by using tiny ultrasound agents to deliver treatments directly to the pancreas, aiming to stop the disease before it starts.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK136186-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873718 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for type 1 diabetes, particularly those with a family history or early signs of autoimmune activity against insulin-producing cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and are experiencing significant symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new diagnostic and therapeutic methods for type 1 diabetes (T1D) by utilizing submicron ultrasound contrast agents. These agents aim to target and deliver treatments specifically to the pancreatic islets, where the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells occurs. The study explores the use of peptide therapeutics that can promote immune tolerance and prevent diabetes onset, particularly during the presymptomatic phase of T1D. By optimizing the delivery of these agents, the research seeks to improve the effectiveness of treatments for patients at risk of developing T1D.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective early interventions for individuals at risk of developing type 1 diabetes, potentially preventing the disease altogether.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been promising results in preclinical studies using peptide therapeutics, this specific approach with ultrasound contrast agents is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ciccaglione, Mark — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Ciccaglione, Mark
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Ultrasound imaging to detect and monitor pancreatic changes in type 1 diabetes
A study using advanced ultrasound contrast and high-resolution imaging to see early signs of type 1 diabetes in the pancreas, with the goal of guiding potential treatments.
-
Creating new ultrasound techniques to improve imaging in type 1 diabetes
This study is working on new ultrasound techniques to help doctors get a clearer picture of the pancreas in people with type 1 diabetes, which could lead to better ways to monitor and manage the condition.
-
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.
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.