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Our Projects
Explore our active and successfully funded projects.
Role of the integrated stress response in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis
In individuals with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), the insulin-producing beta cells are spontaneously destroyed by their own immune system.
Wearable Skin Fluorescence Imaging Patch for the Detection of Blood Glucose Level on an Engineered Skin Platform
A bio-integrated sensor for continuous noninvasive monitoring of blood glucose levels will eliminate the need for diabetes patients to draw blood multiple times a day.
A Potential Second Cure for T1D by Re-Educating the Patient’s Immune System
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is the most common form of diabetes in infants and adolescents, affecting over one million Americans.
Validating the Hypothesis to Cure T1D by Eliminating the Rejection of Cells From Another Person by Farming Beta Cells From a Patient’s Own Stem Cells
The control of blood glucose levels is important for short- and long-term human health.
Taming a Particularly Lethal Category of Cells May Reduce/Eliminate the Onset of T1D
Due to the generous support of DRC, I am happy to report the following advances in efforts in determining the molecular mechanisms driving Nfkbid-dependent diabetes protection in NOD mice overexpressing the Nfkbid-60A transgene (NOD-60A mice).
Can the Inhibition of One Specific Body Gene Prevent Type 1 Diabetes?
CD226 is an activating costimulatory receptor on T cells that has been implicated in promoting the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D) via several mechanisms including destabilization of regulatory T cells (Treg).
Is Cholesterol Exacerbating T1D by Reducing the Functionality and Regeneration Ability of Residual Beta Cells?
In the first 6 months of funding, we have focused our efforts largely on the in vitro experiments.
A Call to Question… Is T1D Caused by Dysfunctionality of Two Pancreatic Cells (β and α)?
To examine how LDs specifically
affect human islet α cells, I applied an
immunomagnetic positive selection
strategy to enrich α cells from
dissociated non-diabetic adult human
islets.
Novel therapy initiative with potential path to preventing T1D by targeting TWO components of T1D development (autoimmune response and beta-cell survival)
It is well known that the mTORC1/4E-BP2 axis has beneficial effects on beta cells and
control T reg cell number and function.
Read Story
Allison and Mac
Allison and Mac
Imagine facing each day with the weight of a life-threatening and unrelenting medical condition. Allison knows the reality of this all too well. Both she and her sister, Marianne have lived with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) since childhood and, just recently, her 4-year-old son, Mac, was also diagnosed with T1D – a day she describes as “the worst day of my life.” Allison felt a deep sense of sadness, knowing the daily burdens of T1D that Mac would now face.
Allison and Mac
Read Story
Lauren and Kyra
Lauren and Kyra
Meet Lauren and her older sister, Kyra. Lauren has been part of DRC for four years and has navigated Type 1 Diabetes since the age of six.
Lauren and Kyra
Pioneering Breakthroughs in Diabetes Research
Diabetes Research Connection (DRC), are making a significant impact in the fight against diabetes. Each year, countless individuals and their families face the challenging diagnosis of diabetes. Our efforts are dedicated to supporting these communities through groundbreaking research and innovative solutions, aiming to transform the way diabetes is understood.
Be the first to know about T1D news, join the DRC family!
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive project updates, latest diabetes research news, and more.
WHY YOUR DONATION MATTERS
100% of your donation is directed to a research project
Currently, 1.6 million Americans live with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), including 200,000 children. Approximately 64,000 new patients are diagnosed yearly. With your backing, we can drive innovation and advancements to find a cure.
HOW IT WORKS
Scientists from across the country submit their projects through our website.
The time from application to funding can be as short as six months, compared to over a year for other funding agencies. Additionally, 100% of our research funds go directly to the scientists to ensure transparency.
DRC has distributed approximately $3M to research
Donor-Driven, Peer-Reviewed, Innovative Diabetes Research
Advancing understanding through DRC
Diabetes Research Connection is at the forefront of funding groundbreaking diabetes research aimed at discovering innovative treatments, therapies, and eventually a cure.
A few words from our supporters
I support Diabetes Research Connection’s innovative and transparent method!
“As a Type 1 Diabetic for nearly 30 years, I support Diabetes Research Connection’s innovative and transparent method of directly funding researchers whose novel approaches may lead to a reduction of complications and the holy grail: a cure”.
Your support goes to the brightest and best young scientists!
“At DRC we ensure that all research projects we advance for potential funding have received rigorous review by independent experts. Your support goes to the brightest and best young scientists who are committed to finding a cure for diabetes”.
I Believe The Mission Of The Diabetes Research Connection Is Vital!
“Entering my fourth decade of Type 1 Diabetes research, it is quite remarkable to look back and see how research seeking to identify answers to the questions of how this disease develops and how the disorder could be cured have changed. No one could have envisioned the difficulty of obtaining research funding, especially for young people. For these reasons, I believe the mission of the Diabetes Research Connection is vital! It offers hope for the future of both those with T1D and young investigators committed to making a major change possible. I fully support DRC and am committed to seeing it prosper.”
We Need To Invest In Young Scientists
“There is a need for increased collaborative efforts to eradicate diabetes. We need to invest in young scientists with new and fresh ideas who are willing to dedicate their careers to studying diabetes. Federal funding for young investigators in basic research is getting harder to acquire, so private funding is critical to invest in novel ideas to help young scientists in their quest for the cure.”
Advancing Efforts of Early-Career Scientists
“The Diabetes Research Connection will advance the efforts of early-career scientists whose innovative proposals for diabetes investigations might be overlooked by government funding agencies in favor of more conventional research.”
We select the research we believe in!
“We support the Diabetes Research Connection because it affords us the rare opportunity to select the research that we believe in and to better understand it by interacting with the very scientists who will DO the research.”
A Personal Reason to Support Diabetes Research
“Several of my family members have or had diabetes. I have lived with T1D for over 50 years. I am committed to ensuring that the Diabetes Research Connection becomes one of the most significant forces funding innovative diabetes research that will rid the planet of this disease and its complications.”
Committed To The Cure
“The Diabetes Research Connection is a powerful breeding ground for new ideas in T1D research in the context of a supportive and enthusiastic community of donors.”
Funding Young Scientists To Pursue New, But Fully Vetted Ideas In Type 1 Diabetes Research
“I love the concept behind this website and organization: funding young scientists to pursue new, but fully vetted ideas in type 1 diabetes research. We need to continue to feed the developmental pipeline for research scientists and ideas in Type 1. I love the idea of choosing where (to whom) my money goes and hearing directly from them.”
The Diabetes Research Connection Will Expedite The Discovery Process
“This is a fantastic new method for funding scientific endeavors and represents a paradigm shift for supporting innovative basic diabetes research. The Diabetes Research Connection will expedite the discovery process and ensure funding for the next generation of promising young researchers, leading to discoveries and ways in which to prevent and cure Type 1 Diabetes.”
A Groundbreaking Effort
“I am passionate about User Experience and developing technologies that create meaningful communities that are focused on making a difference. So I am thrilled at this groundbreaking effort to revolutionize how we fund diabetes research. Most important to me is the effort to bridge the gap between scientists and supporters to cultivate a community of connection. The Diabetes Research Connection aspires to create a community of compassion and care that will lead us to the cure. It will revolutionize the link between the champions that are supporting our fight for the cure and the researchers that are waging our war for progress.”
DRC is a tremendous new way to fund brilliant young research investigators
The Diabetes Research Connection is a tremendous new way to fund brilliant young research investigators in the early stages of their careers — when they need our support the most. These fresh, innovative minds will spearhead scientific discoveries and will ensure that we have a robust diabetes drug/device pipeline for years to come. I applaud the founders of DRC for creating this important new resource that empowers donors to fund researchers directly, and for offering transparency to the entire funding process.
DRC Fills A Void In Our Type 1 Diabetes Funding Scheme
“DRC fills a void in our Type 1 Diabetes funding scheme – it allows for postdoctoral and early investigators to get their ideas out to the interested public and to provide much-needed funds for this next generation researcher to conduct their important studies.”
Diabetes Research Connection Is A Novel Way To Obtain Funding
In this time of funding difficulty, the Diabetes Research Connection is a novel way to obtain funding and a great way for scientists to communicate their exciting ideas with the public. Scientists need to branch out and explore new funding mechanisms.
One Of The Fastest Reviews!
“It was a pleasure working with the Diabetes Research Connection. This was one of the fastest reviews! I thank the Diabetes Research Connection for their support, reviews, and feedback. The comments on the pre-proposal were very helpful in refining and clarifying my thoughts and experimental plan, and the input provided by the Layperson Committee on my video helped me produce something with a much stronger chance of attracting potential donors. I am delighted to have received this opportunity.”
Incredibly Grateful For The Funding We Received
“Thanks to the Diabetes Research Connection, I was able to undertake my investigation, ‘Can we engineer a patient’s immune cells to stop the autoimmune attack that causes Type 1 Diabetes?’ The Brusko lab is incredibly grateful for the $50,000 we received to drive this exciting research project forward.”
Can the Inhibition of One Specific Body Gene Prevent Type 1 Diabetes? (Melanie Shapiro)
Taming a Particularly Lethal Category of Cells May Reduce/Eliminate the Onset of T1D (Dr. J. Dwyer)
A Potential Second Cure for T1D by Re-Educating the Patient’s Immune System (Dr. Leonardo Ferreira)
Stakeholder-Engaged Precision Health for Longevity and Healthy Aging with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
Dr. Han Zhu’s Project
Dr. Sandra Mara Ferreira’s Project
News
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Female Scientists Leading the Way in Diabetes Research
This March, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s shine a light on the remarkable women pushing boundaries in type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Funded by…
Thanks to our sponsors, donors, and volunteers, DRC’s Dance for Diabetes raised
$425,000+ 
for Type 1 Diabetes research
Living with type 1 diabetes affects more than just the individual—it impacts the entire family. From navigating treatment routines to offering unwavering support, every member plays a crucial role in the journey towards managing this condition together. #BondedBeyondBlood
Living with type 1 diabetes affects more than just the individual—it impacts the entire family. From navigating treatment routines to offering unwavering support, every member plays a crucial role in the journey towards managing this condition together. #BondedBeyondBlood
🌍💙 On #WorldHealthDay, let`s join hands to empower those impacted by diabetes and drive groundbreaking research forward! With over 400 million worldwide affected, raising awareness and supporting research is crucial. Join us in making a difference today! Click the link in our bio to donate to Diabetes Research Connection today and support early career scientists shaping a healthier future for all. #DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #HealthForAll #WorldHealthDay2024
🌍💙 On #WorldHealthDay, let`s join hands to empower those impacted by diabetes and drive groundbreaking research forward! With over 400 million worldwide affected, raising awareness and supporting research is crucial. Join us in making a difference today! Click the link in our bio to donate to Diabetes Research Connection today and support early career scientists shaping a healthier future for all. #DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #HealthForAll #WorldHealthDay2024
👭 Sisters in strength, #bondedbeyondblood. 💪 Living with #T1D since childhood, Lauren & Kyra`s journey is a testament to resilience and unity. From shared diagnoses to supporting each other`s dreams, they stand tall against T1D.
Lauren was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the tender age of 6, followed by her sister Kyra at 13, four years later.
Kyra: “My little sister is not just my sibling; she`s my lifeline in managing type 1 diabetes. From sharing low snacks during low blood sugar episodes to being the person I can confide in about the struggles only we understand, she`s my rock. Together, we keep each other on track with our hemoglobin A1c levels and consistently motivate one another to prioritize self-care, striving towards the goal of living the healthiest and longest lives possible.”
Lauren: “Sharing the challenges of managing type 1 diabetes with my sister strengthens our bond and provides an invaluable understanding and support system. When one of us is experiencing type 1 diabetic burnout, the other one is there to listen. No matter how difficult living with type 1 diabetes is, we know that we always have each other to lean on.”
👭 Sisters in strength, #bondedbeyondblood. 💪 Living with #T1D since childhood, Lauren & Kyra`s journey is a testament to resilience and unity. From shared diagnoses to supporting each other`s dreams, they stand tall against T1D.
Lauren was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the tender age of 6, followed by her sister Kyra at 13, four years later.
Kyra: “My little sister is not just my sibling; she`s my lifeline in managing type 1 diabetes. From sharing low snacks during low blood sugar episodes to being the person I can confide in about the struggles only we understand, she`s my rock. Together, we keep each other on track with our hemoglobin A1c levels and consistently motivate one another to prioritize self-care, striving towards the goal of living the healthiest and longest lives possible.”
Lauren: “Sharing the challenges of managing type 1 diabetes with my sister strengthens our bond and provides an invaluable understanding and support system. When one of us is experiencing type 1 diabetic burnout, the other one is there to listen. No matter how difficult living with type 1 diabetes is, we know that we always have each other to lean on.”
Welcome to #BondedBeyondBlood: where family support meets the strength of community. In the journey of managing type 1 diabetes (T1D), one thing becomes abundantly clear: family support is everything.
Each week throughout this month, we`ll shine a light on the strength found within family bonds and the support that carries individuals and their loved ones through even the toughest of times and celebrate the power of togetherness in the T1D community.
#DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #T1D #T1DCommunity #FamilySupport #BondedBeyondBlood
Welcome to #BondedBeyondBlood: where family support meets the strength of community. In the journey of managing type 1 diabetes (T1D), one thing becomes abundantly clear: family support is everything.
Each week throughout this month, we`ll shine a light on the strength found within family bonds and the support that carries individuals and their loved ones through even the toughest of times and celebrate the power of togetherness in the T1D community.
#DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #T1D #T1DCommunity #FamilySupport #BondedBeyondBlood
What is your favorite springtime produce? Let us know!
Maria Hansen and her team investigated Uncoupling Protein 2 (UCP2), a protein crucial for cell energy regulation, especially in insulin-producing cell development. They found that reducing UCP2 levels might enhance the maturation and function of these cells. Using CRISPR-Cas9, they generated cells lacking UCP2 (UCP2KO cells) and adopted a more reliable differentiation method developed by another lab. This approach revealed differences in glucose response and genetic activity between UCP2KO cells and normal cells. Their goal is to understand how altering cell energy regulation affects insulin-producing cell development. Additionally, they plan to use Genipin, a drug, to explore the effects of blocking UCP2 activity at various developmental stages.
Maria Hansen and her team investigated Uncoupling Protein 2 (UCP2), a protein crucial for cell energy regulation, especially in insulin-producing cell development. They found that reducing UCP2 levels might enhance the maturation and function of these cells. Using CRISPR-Cas9, they generated cells lacking UCP2 (UCP2KO cells) and adopted a more reliable differentiation method developed by another lab. This approach revealed differences in glucose response and genetic activity between UCP2KO cells and normal cells. Their goal is to understand how altering cell energy regulation affects insulin-producing cell development. Additionally, they plan to use Genipin, a drug, to explore the effects of blocking UCP2 activity at various developmental stages.
Annual diabetic eye exams are very important to ensure adequate eye health. Here is a little guide on what to expect!
Annual diabetic eye exams are very important to ensure adequate eye health. Here is a little guide on what to expect!
Want to learn more about DRC? Click here: https://ow.ly/jju550QLacK
#T1D #Type1Diabetes #DiabeticResearch
Want to learn more about DRC? Click here: https://ow.ly/jju550QLacK
#T1D #Type1Diabetes #DiabeticResearch
Having type 1 diabetes as a woman presents some unique challenges. Navigating the uncertainties surrounding healthy offspring and pregnancy, managing blood glucose levels amidst work challenges, and addressing the impact of menstrual cycles on diabetes are just a few concerns for women with diabetes. Fertility issues, stereotypes, and the juggle of multiple roles alongside constant diabetes management add to the complexity. Despite these challenges, women strive to excel in various aspects of life, embracing empowerment and entrepreneurship while living with diabetes around the clock.
Having type 1 diabetes as a woman presents some unique challenges. Navigating the uncertainties surrounding healthy offspring and pregnancy, managing blood glucose levels amidst work challenges, and addressing the impact of menstrual cycles on diabetes are just a few concerns for women with diabetes. Fertility issues, stereotypes, and the juggle of multiple roles alongside constant diabetes management add to the complexity. Despite these challenges, women strive to excel in various aspects of life, embracing empowerment and entrepreneurship while living with diabetes around the clock.
Let`s debunk some common type 1 diabetes myths! Learn more here: https://ow.ly/ERjr50QIYvv
🌟 Happy International Women`s Day! 🌟 Today, we celebrate the extraordinary women who have made a profound impact on our type 1 diabetes (T1D) community. From the strong and resilient women living with T1D to the brilliant researchers at Diabetes Research Connection (DRC), and all our dedicated supporters, your strength, resilience, and contributions are truly remarkable. Your inspiration fuels our journey together, today and every day. Here`s to the power of women in shaping a healthier future for all! 💙💪
#InternationalWomensDay #InvestInWomen #IWD2024 #WomenEmpowerment #WomenInLeadership #WomenInResearch #DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #T1DCommunity #T1D
🌟 Happy International Women`s Day! 🌟 Today, we celebrate the extraordinary women who have made a profound impact on our type 1 diabetes (T1D) community. From the strong and resilient women living with T1D to the brilliant researchers at Diabetes Research Connection (DRC), and all our dedicated supporters, your strength, resilience, and contributions are truly remarkable. Your inspiration fuels our journey together, today and every day. Here`s to the power of women in shaping a healthier future for all! 💙💪
#InternationalWomensDay #InvestInWomen #IWD2024 #WomenEmpowerment #WomenInLeadership #WomenInResearch #DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #T1DCommunity #T1D
We see a future without type 1 diabetes, but we need your help to get there. Give here: https://ow.ly/OcgT50QHhjc
We see a future without type 1 diabetes, but we need your help to get there. Give here: https://ow.ly/OcgT50QHhjc
To kick off Women`s History Month, take a moment to learn about the incredible female figures that have made invaluable progress in type 1 diabetic research history!
To kick off Women`s History Month, take a moment to learn about the incredible female figures that have made invaluable progress in type 1 diabetic research history!
Make sure to get your LOIs in by tonight! Submit here: https://ow.ly/gk4p50QHfSW
The deadline for RFA 2024-01 has been extended by 4 days! The new deadline is February 29th at midnight. Submit your LOI here: https://ow.ly/Zbew50QHg6R
The deadline for RFA 2024-01 has been extended by 4 days! The new deadline is February 29th at midnight. Submit your LOI here: https://ow.ly/Zbew50QHg6R
Don’t miss out on an amazing opportunity to win a trip to San Francisco while supporting vital diabetes research! ✈️💙 Make a meaningful impact today! Boost your chances of winning with every $100 donation – every entry counts! 🌉🎟️
Check the link in our bio for more details. 🤳🏽
#diabetesresearchconnection #drc #diabetes #type1diabetes #donatetowin #giveaway #sanfrancisco #california
Don’t miss out on an amazing opportunity to win a trip to San Francisco while supporting vital diabetes research! ✈️💙 Make a meaningful impact today! Boost your chances of winning with every $100 donation – every entry counts! 🌉🎟️
Check the link in our bio for more details. 🤳🏽
#diabetesresearchconnection #drc #diabetes #type1diabetes #donatetowin #giveaway #sanfrancisco #california
DRC`s RFA 2024-01 closes on February 25th! Apply here: https://ow.ly/vyYI50Qy95m
💕 Love is in the air this February, and here`s a sweet incentive to support Diabetes Research Connection (DRC)! 💌
Your generous donation of $100 or more could lead to a romantic 7-night getaway at the exquisite Club Donatello in stunning San Francisco! 🌉✨
💸 The more you donate, the higher your chances to win! Every $100 donation earns you an entry: $100 = 1 entry, $500 = 5 entries, $1,000 = 10 entries, and so forth!
🎉 Plus, your donation supports innovative research in the fight to end diabetes!
Link in bio for giveaway details. Spread the love by sharing and tagging friends!
Don`t miss out! Giveaway ends February 29, 2024, 11:59pm PST. The lucky winner will be announced on March 1st!
Best of luck!
#valentines #valentinesday #giveaway #sanfrancisco #diabetesresearchconnection #drc #supportresearch #donate #fundraiser
💕 Love is in the air this February, and here`s a sweet incentive to support Diabetes Research Connection (DRC)! 💌
Your generous donation of $100 or more could lead to a romantic 7-night getaway at the exquisite Club Donatello in stunning San Francisco! 🌉✨
💸 The more you donate, the higher your chances to win! Every $100 donation earns you an entry: $100 = 1 entry, $500 = 5 entries, $1,000 = 10 entries, and so forth!
🎉 Plus, your donation supports innovative research in the fight to end diabetes!
Link in bio for giveaway details. Spread the love by sharing and tagging friends!
Don`t miss out! Giveaway ends February 29, 2024, 11:59pm PST. The lucky winner will be announced on March 1st!
Best of luck!
#valentines #valentinesday #giveaway #sanfrancisco #diabetesresearchconnection #drc #supportresearch #donate #fundraiser
Show your love for diabetic research this Valentine`s Day here ❤️: https://ow.ly/QyTI50Qy90H
🏆🌟 Let`s shine a spotlight on a true hero in the midst of @chiefs Super Bowl triumph! @noahgray87 is not just a tight end for the Chiefs, but an inspiration for millions battling type 1 diabetes (T1D) worldwide.
🏈 From the glitz of the gridiron to the daily grind of managing his health, Noah`s journey exemplifies courage and resilience. Diagnosed at just 18, he faced adversity head-on, refusing to let T1D sideline his dreams.
💪 Despite the challenges, Noah`s perseverance paid off. His dedication to both his sport and his health is nothing short of remarkable. And as he celebrates a glorious Kansas City victory, he`s not just lifting the Lombardi Trophy, but also raising awareness for T1D in the most amazing way possible.
👏 Join us in applauding Noah Gray`s triumphs on and off the field. He reminds us all that with determination and perseverance, we can tackle any obstacle, and that T1D does not stop dreams from coming true!
Here`s to Noah Gray, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the sweet taste of Super Bowl success! 🎉👑
#CelebritySpotlight #NoahGray #Type1Diabetes #T1D #DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #KansasCity #ChiefsKingdom #SuperBowl #SuperBowlChamps
🏆🌟 Let`s shine a spotlight on a true hero in the midst of @chiefs Super Bowl triumph! @noahgray87 is not just a tight end for the Chiefs, but an inspiration for millions battling type 1 diabetes (T1D) worldwide.
🏈 From the glitz of the gridiron to the daily grind of managing his health, Noah`s journey exemplifies courage and resilience. Diagnosed at just 18, he faced adversity head-on, refusing to let T1D sideline his dreams.
💪 Despite the challenges, Noah`s perseverance paid off. His dedication to both his sport and his health is nothing short of remarkable. And as he celebrates a glorious Kansas City victory, he`s not just lifting the Lombardi Trophy, but also raising awareness for T1D in the most amazing way possible.
👏 Join us in applauding Noah Gray`s triumphs on and off the field. He reminds us all that with determination and perseverance, we can tackle any obstacle, and that T1D does not stop dreams from coming true!
Here`s to Noah Gray, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the sweet taste of Super Bowl success! 🎉👑
#CelebritySpotlight #NoahGray #Type1Diabetes #T1D #DiabetesResearchConnection #DRC #KansasCity #ChiefsKingdom #SuperBowl #SuperBowlChamps
We grant up to $75,000 to support each research project
#InnovativeDiabetesResearch