Helmholtz Diabetes Center Institute of Translational Stem Cell Research
The Institute of Translational Stem Cell Research (ITS) aims to develop a new advanced cell therapy to carry out clinical studies in type 1 diabetes patients.
The Institute of Translational Stem Cell Research (ITS) aims to develop a new advanced cell therapy to carry out clinical studies in type 1 diabetes patients.
About our Research
Research Concept
Basic science forms the foundations of most, if not all medical breakthroughs. To appreciate what goes awry in disease, we must fully understand how cells function in periods of homeostasis. In many epithelial organs, including the pancreas, tissue morphogenesis is inextricably tied to cell fate decisions. In our lab, we aim to understand the connection between epithelial architecture and the commitment of pancreatic progenitor cells to mature endocrine cells. We believe that to understand this process in a physiologically relevant manner, we must integrate findings from mouse and human pancreatic epithelia. Discoveries from our research are incredibly important for improving differentiation protocols that aim to provide functional, glucose-responsive beta cells for use in diabetes cellular therapies.