Project Summary:
Dr. Do is studying CD138, a molecule expressed by both beta cells and immune cells. His work builds on growing evidence that in T1D, beta cells are not just passive targets of immune attack but also develop dysfunction that promotes inflammation and contributes to autoimmunity. Dr. Do found that healthy beta cells under stress express CD138, which helps regulate inflammatory responses. However, beta cells from people with T1D show little to no CD138 expression. CD138 is also present on anti-inflammatory immune cells called CD8 T regulatory cells, and these cells similarly show reduced CD138 in people with T1D. Dr. Do hypothesizes that CD138 helps beta cells function under stress while also supporting anti-inflammatory immune responses. He will investigate how CD138 protects beta cells and whether CD138 positive CD8 T regulatory cells can reduce inflammation. This work could lead to new therapies that both strengthen beta cells and reduce autoimmune attacks in T1D.
