Tiny study probes why islet transplants prevent low blood sugar

NCT ID NCT03079921

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at how the nervous system helps control blood sugar in people with type 1 diabetes who had islet cell transplants. Nine participants received drugs that block nerve signals or a placebo during controlled low blood sugar experiments. The goal was to learn whether nerve or hormonal signals are more important for protecting against hypoglycemia after transplant.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Phentolamine and Propranolol

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could help improve understanding of how islet transplants protect against dangerously low blood sugar.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-phase study with only 9 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The drugs used are for temporary blockade, not treatment.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for TYPE1DIABETES are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hypoglycemia type 1 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Pennsylvania - Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States