Project #70: Combined inhibition of RANKL/RANK and DYRK1A pathways for T1D therapy
This grant supports research on combined RANKL/RANK and DYRK1A pathway inhibition to regenerate and protect pancreatic beta cells for type 1 diabetes therapy.
Funder: Diabetes Research Connection
Due Dates: Rolling
Funding Amounts: Up to $75,000 per project; typically for early-stage, one-year research.
Summary: Supports innovative research combining RANKL/RANK and DYRK1A pathway inhibitors to regenerate and protect pancreatic beta cells for type 1 diabetes therapy.
Key Information: Focused on early-career investigators proposing novel, translational T1D research.
Description
This funding opportunity from the Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) supports research into the combined inhibition of RANKL/RANK and DYRK1A pathways as a novel therapeutic strategy for type 1 diabetes (T1D). The project aims to enhance the regeneration, survival, and function of pancreatic beta cells by leveraging the synergistic effects of denosumab or osteoprotegerin (OPG) with harmine. Both pathways have been independently shown to improve beta cell health, and early data suggest that their combination is significantly more effective. The research will test this approach in pre-clinical models, with a strong focus on translational potential since both molecules are already in clinical trials.
