Grant Award Details

Bioengineering human stem cell-derived beta cell organoids to monitor cell health in real time and improve therapeutic outcomes in patients
Grant Number: 
DISC2-13498
Project Objective: 
  • To develop an allogeneic hPSC-derived cell beta cell organoid product for type 1 diabetes that includes a stress responsive sensor to monitor graft health over time
Investigator: 
Institution: 
Type: 
PI
Disease Focus: 
Diabetes
Metabolic Disorders
Type 1 diabetes
Human Stem Cell Use: 
Embryonic Stem Cell
iPS Cell
Award Value: 
$1,198,550
Status: 
Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • Bioengineering human stem cell-derived beta cell organoids to monitor cell health in real time and improve therapeutic outcomes in patients
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

We will generate nanoprobe-containing stem cell-derived human beta cells that can be monitored in real time in response to inflammatory stress upon transplantation in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Impact

Our product will replace donor islets for cell replacement therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes, and will provide a readout of cell survival and an opportunity for therapeutic intervention.

Major Proposed Activities

  • Test insulin-producing cell organoids with nanosensors to secrete insulin in response to elevated glucose and emit a signal in real time, and test similar activities in animal models of diabetes.
  • Test the ability of insulin-producing cell organoids with nanosensors to emit a measurable signal in response to increased inflammation in vitro and after transplantation in small animal models
Statement of Benefit to California: 

The American Diabetes Association states that California, with the highest number of patients with diabetes in the country, also has the highest cost at $39.47 billion. A large proportion of these patients are insulin-dependent and are potential candidates for islet replacement therapy. Developing technologies that can improve transplantation outcomes in patients directly affects long-term quality of life. All Minutia staff are CA residents, with a long history of collaboration with UCSF.