Lexington, Kentucky, December 2, 2025
The National Institutes of Health has awarded the University of Kentucky an $11 million grant to boost diabetes prevention research over the next five years. This funding will lead to the establishment of the UK Diabetes Prevention Center, which aims to modernize infrastructure and reduce type 2 diabetes rates in Kentucky, where 38% of adults are estimated to have prediabetes. The initiative, led by experienced faculty, seeks to enhance health outcomes for Kentuckians and address health disparities.
Lexington, Kentucky
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded an $11 million grant to the University of Kentucky (UK) to enhance diabetes prevention research over the next five years.
This funding will establish the UK Diabetes Prevention Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (UK-DPC), aiming to expand and modernize diabetes-focused infrastructure both on campus and throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Kentucky faces a significant health challenge, with an estimated 38% of adults having prediabetes. The UK-DPC’s initiatives are expected to reduce type 2 diabetes rates and improve long-term health outcomes for Kentuckians.
UK President Eli Capilouto emphasized the importance of this grant, stating that it strengthens the university’s research efforts and commitment to a healthier future for the Commonwealth.
Establishing the UK-DPC: A Commitment to Health Innovation
The establishment of the UK Diabetes Prevention Center of Biomedical Research Excellence reflects a proactive response to the growing diabetes crisis in Kentucky. With nearly 4 in 10 adults facing prediabetes, local initiatives encouraged by the NIH grant aim to make a substantial impact. The $11 million funding underscores the opportunities for health innovation and collaborative efforts to tackle this pressing issue, which not only affects individual lives but also presents broader economic implications for the state.
Leadership Driving Change
The UK-DPC will be led by Dr. Simon Fisher, who has extensive experience in endocrinology and diabetes management, alongside Dr. Barbara Nikolajczyk, a recognized leader in translational research. Their combined expertise positions the center to effectively harness this significant funding to enhance diabetes research capabilities in Kentucky. By building on their existing research framework, the UK-DPC seeks to foster advancements that could lead to improved prevention strategies and treatment options.
Addressing Health Disparities Through Targeted Research
An essential focus of the UK-DPC will be on addressing health disparities associated with prediabetes and diabetes. With 38% of adults in Kentucky facing the prediabetic condition, the need to expand prevention programs becomes imperative. The center’s efforts not only aim to improve individual health outcomes but also to decrease the healthcare burden for families and communities. By investing in research capacity and scientific talent, the UK-DPC is poised to lead Kentucky toward healthier futures.
Support from the Community and Institutions
This $11 million grant complements existing diabetes research efforts at UK, further strengthening partnerships with local foundations. Support from the Barnstable Brown family and the Bill Gatton Foundation, among others, illustrates the commitment of the Lexington community to advancing health-related research. Collaborations like these demonstrate the power of private investment in addressing health challenges, effectively fueling both academic progress and community health improvements.
Looking Forward: The Future of Diabetes Prevention in Kentucky
The launch of the UK Diabetes Prevention Center of Biomedical Research Excellence is a commendable step toward tackling a significant public health issue. As this initiative develops, it promises to bring together academic resources, innovative research efforts, and community support in a unified effort to combat diabetes in Kentucky. Strengthened research capacity holds the potential for creating impactful, sustainable change that could serve as a model for other states facing similar health challenges.
Conclusion
The establishment of the UK-DPC represents a concerted effort to mitigate the diabetes epidemic in Kentucky through enhanced research and prevention strategies. As local businesses and institutions continue to innovate and invest in health initiatives, it is vital for community members to stay engaged in this significant development. Supporting local research efforts can lead to healthier futures for Kentuckians and reinforce the spirit of innovation that fuels both personal and economic growth in Lexington and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the UK Diabetes Prevention Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (UK-DPC)?
The UK-DPC is a new initiative funded by an $11 million NIH grant, aiming to enhance diabetes prevention research at the University of Kentucky over the next five years.
Who are the leaders of the UK-DPC?
Dr. Simon Fisher and Dr. Barbara Nikolajczyk will lead the UK-DPC. Dr. Fisher is the director of the Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center and chief of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, while Dr. Nikolajczyk is the associate director for translational research at the Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center.
What is the significance of this grant for Kentucky?
The grant is significant because Kentucky has an estimated 38% of adults with prediabetes. The UK-DPC’s initiatives are expected to reduce type 2 diabetes rates and improve long-term health outcomes for Kentuckians.
How does this grant complement existing research efforts at UK?
This NIH grant complements ongoing diabetes research efforts at UK, supported by the Barnstable Brown family, the Bill Gatton Foundation, the UK Office of the Vice President for Research, and the UK College of Medicine.
Key Features of the UK Diabetes Prevention Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (UK-DPC)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding | $11 million NIH grant over five years |
| Leadership | Dr. Simon Fisher and Dr. Barbara Nikolajczyk |
| Focus Areas | Building research capacity, expanding prevention programs, fostering new scientific talent |
| Target Population | Adults in Kentucky, with 38% having prediabetes |
| Complementary Support | Barnstable Brown family, Bill Gatton Foundation, UK Office of the Vice President for Research, UK College of Medicine |
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