Joslin Diabetes Center

Research News

For More Information

Visit our Clinical Trials section to learn how to participate in studies designed to find new and better ways to treat patients with diabetes.

Some of the most important scientific initiatives in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes have been the result of research at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. Research is also ongoing at the Joslin Diabetes Center at University of Maryland Medicine. Results of these research initiatives are quickly translated into improved treatment and services for patients.

A sampling of recent or ongoing research at the Boston center includes:

A ten-year nationwide multicenter Diabetes, Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) demonstrated the value of controlling blood sugar levels to reduce complications.
New technology utilizing video allows clinicians to watch blood flow in the eye during examination, allowing earlier diagnosis of even small changes.
Investigation of the basic principles of cell communication that may lead to understanding why cells mis-communicate causing diseases such as diabetes.
A nationwide study to determine if lifestyle changes and/or two medications can delay or prevent Type 2 diabetes in people with impaired glucose tolerance.
The development of a chemical that can prevent blood vessel complications in animal kidneys and eyes.
A nationwide study to determine if Type 1 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in high risk individuals by the use of small amounts of insulin injected daily, and in moderate risk individuals by the use of insulin crystals taken orally.

Special research interests of the physician researchers at the Joslin Diabetes Center at University of Maryland Medicine include:

New understandings of the genetic basis of Type 2 diabetes and obesity, and the development of new therapeutic and preventive strategies.
Characterization of growth factors for pancreatic beta-cells and their potential clinical use for treatment of Type 1 diabetes.
Investigation of the long-term effects of blood glucose control on prevention and delay of diabetic complications.
Determining the optimal pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing pancreas transplantation.
Clinical trials of new therapeutic agents for the treatment of diabetes and obesity.
Study of relatives of people with Type 1 diabetes to determine genetics of the disease.

Research Volunteers

The Joslin Center is seeking volunteers for the following research studies:

Clinical trials of new therapeutic agents for the treatment of diabetes and obesity needs volunteers with diabetes.
A study of the genetics of diabetes requires people with diabetes and their families.
The Diabetes Prevention Trial requires close relatives of people with Type 1 diabetes to test for antibodies for insulin.
An intervention study to prevent Type 2 diabetes in African Americans by preventing obesity needs volunteers aged 5 to 10 years old.

This page was last updated on: August 21, 2007.

For appointments or information, call 1-888-JOSLIN8 (1-888-567-5468).