Uncovering new genetic mechanisms of beta-cell autoimmunity to better understand type 1 diabetes

Project Code

MRCIIAR25Ex Johnson

Research Theme

Infection, Immunity, Antimicrobial Resistance and Repair

Project Summary Download

Summary

This project uses a unique collection of samples from people with diabetes to address a fundamental question: What are the genetic mechanisms underpinning beta-cell autoimmunity? 

Over a century since the discovery of insulin, and four decades since the recognition that type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease, the mechanisms underlying T1D remain unsolved. 
 
By identifying new genetic forms of autoimmune diabetes, you will develop a powerful combination of skills in genomics, immunology, and clinical research, providing new diagnoses to these families and uncover new mechanisms of beta-cell destruction – the first step towards the ultimate goal of preventing T1D. 

Lead Supervisor

Dr Matthew Johnson

Lead Supervisor Email

m.johnson@exeter.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Exeter