Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) awarded a $157,000 Project Grant to Michigan State University (in partnership with Henry Ford Health) beginning May 1, 2026, and concluding April 30, 2028, under the Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research program (CFDA 93.847). The award funds development of targeted nanotheranostics designed to protect pancreatic beta-cells in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). The research involves designing iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized with exendin-4 peptides to selectively target the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor on beta-cells, combined with beta-2 microglobulin small interfering RNA (siRNA) to reduce CD8+ T cell-mediated beta-cell destruction.

The project deliverables include synthesis of both targeted and non-targeted control nanodrug formulations, development of intrapancreatic duct delivery mechanisms, and creation of dual-modality imaging capability utilizing Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with radiolabeled exendin-4 and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) contrast from the iron oxide core. These research outputs are intended to advance understanding of beta-cell preservation and provide a foundation for developing disease-modifying therapies that address the underlying autoimmune mechanisms of T1D, moving beyond current symptom management approaches focused solely on insulin administration.