Mechanism of protection of islet beta cells from T1D by heparan sulfate [ 2013 - 2015 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: A/Pr Charmaine Simeonovic (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Christopher Parish ,  Prof Stefan Bornstein ,  The Australian National University (Managed by)

Brief description Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease which destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Current insulin therapy does not prevent the development of serious secondary complications. We have discovered that beta cells require a complex sugar (heparan sulfate; HS) for their survival and that T1D is prevented when an enzyme, heparanase, that degrades HS is inhibited. Understanding these mechanisms will identify new therapeutic strategies for preventing T1D progression.

Funding Amount $AUD 602,453.45

Funding Scheme Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant