Project #83: CD318 orchestrates immune regulation and supports beta-cell function in T1D
Forecasted
Project #83: CD318 orchestrates immune regulation and supports beta-cell function in T1D supports Jay Do’s research on CD138 to explore beta-cell protection and reduced inflammation in type 1 diabetes.
Funder: Diabetes Research Connection
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $25,000–$75,000 for one year; graduate students capped at $50,000
Summary: DRC supports innovative early-career type 1 diabetes research, including Dr. Jeong-Su “Jay” Do’s investigation of CD138 in beta-cell protection and immune regulation.
Key Information: Applicants must conduct research at U.S. institutions and cannot be NIH-funded principal investigators or R01 recipients.
Description
Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) funds novel, early-stage type 1 diabetes (T1D) research through a donor-driven, peer-reviewed model. Its seed funding supports early-career scientists working toward a cure, improved care, prevention, and reduced complications. Researchers use one-year projects to establish proof of concept that can support applications for larger grants.
Project #83 supports Jeong-Su “Jay” Do, PhD, at City of Hope. He is investigating CD138, a molecule expressed by beta cells and anti-inflammatory CD8 T regulatory cells. His findings indicate that CD138 expression is reduced in people with T1D. The project examines whether CD138 protects stressed beta cells and whether CD138-positive regulatory cells reduce inflammation, potentially informing therapies that strengthen beta cells while limiting autoimmune attacks.
