Project Summary:
Project Summary: When we think of a circadian clock, we think of an intrinsic, internal biological system that tells us when to sleep and wake up. What we don’t realize, is that each cell in our body also follows a circadian clock. The circadian clock of beta cells, the cells lost in T1D, is essential for normal function- as this clock guides insulin release after eating, during sleep, to make sure that the body has steady energy levels. A potential cure for T1D is beta cell transplant. Stem-cell–derived beta cell transplants hold more promise for treating type 1 diabetes because they can provide an unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells, whereas donor beta cells are scarce and limited by the availability of organ donors. However, without a functioning circadian clock, stem-cell derived beta cells will not be able to function properly. Dr. Satish is working to uncover the genes and proteins responsible for the circadian clock in beta cells. The significance of this work will be the ability to ‘set’ the circadian clock correctly in stem-cell derived beta cells, allowing them to function optimally, and be a cure for T1D.
