[National Institutes of Health](https://www.nih.gov)

October 1, 2025 (estimated, forecasted)

Estimated total funding: $3,000,000 | ~6 awards expected | R01 mechanism

Supports research to engineer improved stem cell-derived islet cell products for enhanced cell replacement therapy outcomes in diabetes.

This is a forecasted opportunity; applications are not yet being solicited.

--- ## Description The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) intends to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for research focused on engineering stem cell-derived islet cell products to improve outcomes in cell replacement therapies, particularly for diabetes. Unlike cadaveric human islets, stem cell-derived islets originate from controlled cell bank sources, enabling optimized characteristics for greater graft viability and function. This opportunity aims to stimulate research on engineering targets and pathways and to encourage preclinical testing and validation of these strategies. Collaborative projects that combine expertise in stem cell biology, islet biology, transplant immunology, type 1 diabetes autoimmunity, and preclinical models are strongly encouraged. --- ## Due Dates - Estimated Application Due Date: October 1, 2025 *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Estimated total program funding: $3,000,000 - Expected number of awards: Approximately 6 - Funding mechanism: R01 research project grant - Cost sharing/matching: Not required --- ## Eligibility Eligible applicants include: - State, county, city, or township governments - Independent school districts - Public and state-controlled institutions of higher education - Native American tribal governments (federally recognized and other) - Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities - Nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions) - Private institutions of higher education - For-profit organizations (including small businesses) - U.S. territories or possessions - Faith-based or community-based organizations - Regional organizations - Eligible agencies of the federal government - Non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities (foreign institutions) - Others as specified in the opportunity --- ## Application Process - This is a forecasted opportunity; applications are not being accepted at this time. - The NOFO will use the NIH R01 activity code. - Potential applicants are encouraged to begin forming collaborations and preparing responsive projects in anticipation of the NOFO's release. - Monitor [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/359016) for updates and the official application release. --- ## Additional Information - Research should focus on engineering stem cell-derived islet cell products for improved viability and long-term function in cell replacement therapy. - Preclinical testing and validation of engineering strategies are encouraged. - Collaborative, multidisciplinary proposals are particularly welcome. --- ## External Links - [Grants.gov Opportunity Listing (Forecast)](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/359016) - [National Institutes of Health](https://www.nih.gov) - [NIDDK](https://www.niddk.nih.gov) (for institute-specific updates) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Affiliation | |---------------------|-----------------------------|---------------|----------------------------------------------------| | Albert J. Hwa, PhD | [albert.hwa@nih.gov](mailto:albert.hwa@nih.gov) | 301-451-1525 | National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases | ---

Engineering Improved Stem Cell-Derived Islet Cells for Replacement Therapies

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