Endocrine Pharmacology
The Endocrine Pharmacology group focuses on the signalling pathways that regulate insulin secretion, pancreatic beta-cell growth and viability. As such, the research is concerned with the factors influencing the development of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in man.
In type 1 diabetes, the emphasis is directed towards studies of the role of viral infection as a means to promote autoimmunity against beta-cell antigens. The aim is to gain an improved understanding of the mechanisms by which immune cells are recruited to the islets of Langerhans and how they alter beta-cell function and viability.
In relation to type 2 diabetes, the group is investigating the mechanisms by which dietary fatty acid components can influence beta-cell viability and, in particular, it aims to define the pathways by which certain unsaturated fatty acid molecules exert cytoprotection. Alongside this, the cytoprotective actions of important anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-4, are also under study.
For more information on this research group please visit the website View Website