Molecular mechanism underlying pancreas morphogenesis and differentiation

Organ development and morphogenesis is governed by extrinsic and intrinsic cues that regulate molecular programs. One of the intriguing examples is the formation of the pancreas from the primary endodermal germ layer during early mammalian embryogenesis. This glandular organ is formed by progenitor cell differentiation of endocrine cells that secrete hormones into the blood stream and exocrine cells that train the digestive enzymes via the duct into the duodenum. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying pancreas morphogenesis and differentiation are not fully elucidated. We are drawn towards understanding the molecular mechanisms that orchestrate pancreatic duct formation and tubulogenesis during mouse development. Specifically, we are interested in indentifying the mechanisms which couple tissue morphogenesis and pancreatic endocrine cell-fate specification. Understanding of these mechanisms might provide pathomechanisms of diabetes and allow new approaches in tissue engineering.

Research Topics   

Molecular and cellular basis of pancreatic tissue morphogenesis and endocrine lineage formation. Dissecting the paths of pancreatic islet formation, function and failure in health and disease.

  Academic and Research Activities

Publications

Publications of Mostafa Bakhti at PubMed