Why heart disease develops differently in people with type 1 diabetes
Molecular Drivers of Atherosclerosis in Diabetes
This project compares immune signals and artery plaque features in people with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and without diabetes to learn why heart disease is worse in type 1 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194510 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will compare blood proteins and immune cell types among people with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and people without diabetes. They will study cells and molecular signals inside atherosclerotic plaques using advanced single-cell technologies and disease models. The research uses patient blood and plaque samples to link genetic and immune differences to plaque composition and cell-to-cell communication. The goal is to identify specific molecular drivers that may explain the higher cardiovascular risk seen in type 1 diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would include adults with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, especially those with known atherosclerosis, along with non-diabetic adults who can serve as comparison controls.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate changes to their medical treatment may not benefit because this project is focused on understanding mechanisms rather than testing a therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or treat artery disease specifically in people with type 1 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked immune activity to diabetes-related artery disease, but comprehensive single-cell and plaque comparisons across type 1, type 2, and non-diabetic groups are relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Onengut, Suna — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Onengut, Suna
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 below.