Mednarodni projekti
Generation and functional characterization of neuroendocrine cells for cellular replacement therapy (GROWBETA)
Organizacije (1)
Povzetek
New insights into the molecular biology of signals, which control cellular function and differentiation, open novel approaches towards treatment of degenerative diseases. Diabetes mellitus is a prototype of such a disease, characterized either by a complete loss of the insulin producing B-cells or by impaired regulation of secretion. We want to combine the expertise of developmental biologists, neuroscientists, and cell biologists, to provide basic knowledge on how precursor cells can be induced to develop a secretory phenotype. Next, we want to study, how such cells are influenced in their function by a set of signals, which is shared by neurons and endocrine cells. Regarding diabetes, the challenge for cellular replacement therapy is not only to grow islet-like tissue, but also to achieve the uninterrupted control of blood glucose levels. The simplicity of islets should provide a testing ground for general strategies
