Research & Clinical Studies
Endocrine & Diabetes Plus Clinic participates in research to advance endocrine and metabolic care. Learn about our research interests.
Our Research Mission
At Endocrine & Diabetes Plus Clinic of Houston, we believe that clinical research is essential to advancing patient care. Our physicians have a strong track record of academic and clinical research — particularly in diabetes, thyroid disorders, and metabolic conditions.
Dr. Kim has published peer-reviewed research in leading medical journals, with work focusing on genetic prediction of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular effects of incretin therapy, and the role of hematopoietic cells in diabetes. Dr. Varughese's fellowship research focused on diabetes medication and its effects on inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.
Areas of Research Interest
- Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes — treatment outcomes and emerging therapies
- Thyroid cancer surveillance and management
- Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology effectiveness
- Insulin pump therapy in Type 1 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk reduction
- Fatty liver disease (MAFLD/MASLD) and its endocrine connections
- Telemedicine models for endocrine care access
- Osteoporosis and bone density management
Selected Publications
Kim J, Kim J, Kwak MJ, Bajaj M. Genetic prediction of type 2 diabetes using deep neural network. Clin Genet, 2018;93(4):822–829. PMID: 29136281.
Buras ED et al. Proinsulin-producing, hyperglycemia-induced adipose tissue macrophages underlie insulin resistance in high fat-fed diabetic mice. FASEB J, 2015;29(8):3537–3548. PMID: 25953849.
Kim J, Samson SL. Cardiovascular effects of incretin therapy in diabetes care. Metab Syndr Relat Disord 2014;12(6):303–310. PMID: 24842063.
Kojima H, Kim J, Chan L. Emerging role of hematopoietic cells in diabetes. Trends Endocrinol Metabol 2014;25(4):178–187. PMID: 24507996.
Kim J, Chae YK, Chernoff A. The risk for coronary heart disease according to insulin resistance with and without type 2 diabetes. Endocr Res 2013;38(4):195–205. PMID: 23425058.
Volunteer for a Clinical Research Trial
We are actively enrolling volunteers for clinical research studies. Participating in a trial gives you early access to cutting-edge therapies for endocrine and metabolic conditions — often at no cost to you — while advancing medicine for future patients.
Be Part of the Future of Endocrine Medicine
Our clinic participates in investigational studies for new medications and devices in diabetes, thyroid disease, obesity, cholesterol, and hormonal disorders. New treatments are developed through volunteers like you.
📞 Call to Learn More ✉️ Email UsWhat Areas Are We Studying?
Our research interests span a wide range of endocrine and metabolic conditions. Current and upcoming trial areas include:
Diabetes
New oral agents, next-generation GLP-1 therapies, novel insulin formulations, and closed-loop AID system studies.
Obesity & Metabolic Disease
Emerging weight-loss medications, combination GLP-1/GIP agents, and novel anti-obesity therapies in development.
Thyroid Disorders
Studies in Graves' disease, thyroid eye disease, and novel approaches to hypothyroidism treatment.
Cholesterol & Lipids
Next-generation LDL and triglyceride-lowering agents, RNA-based therapies, and cardiovascular risk reduction trials.
Osteoporosis & Bone Health
Novel bone-building agents, fracture prevention strategies, and long-term bone density studies.
Adrenal & Pituitary
Studies in Cushing's syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, and rare hormonal disorders.
What Are the Benefits of Participating?
- ✓ Access to new treatments not yet available to the general public
- ✓ Closer monitoring — study participants often receive more frequent check-ins and labs
- ✓ No cost for study medications, devices, and study-related visits
- ✓ Contribute to medical progress — help develop the next generation of treatments
- ✓ You can withdraw at any time — participation is always voluntary
How Do I Sign Up?
To express interest in research participation, simply contact our office. Your provider will review which studies you may be eligible for based on your diagnosis, age, and medical history. Eligibility varies by study — not everyone will qualify for every trial, but we encourage all interested patients to inquire.