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Content archived on 2024-04-30

Transgenic animal models to study the mechanisms that lead to non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

Objective



Research objectives and content
Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) is the most common metabolic disease in humans and the prevalence of this disease is increasing in Europe. Dr. Fatima Bosch's group have developed several transgenic animal models to study the pathophysiological causes of NIDDM. One of them is a model that overexpresses phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) in the liver. In these transgenic mice, the resulting hepatic overproduction of glucose lead to insulin resistance and obesity. Using this model, I aim to determine the role of chronic hyperglycemia in the alteration of pancreatic ss-cell function, fat accumulation and muscle insulin resistance . Other models overxpressing PEPCK, in the liver and adipose tissue, or in adipose tissue alone will also be studied. The interaction of the liver with other tissues like fat, muscle and pancreatic ss-cells will also be examined.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected
impact)
I have studied the regulation of PEPCK gene expression in adipocytes. This approach helps us to understand the molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation. However, the development of transgenic models is essential if this type of study is to be extrapolated to the pathophysiological context. The host laboratory is very competent in this domain and is ideal to further my training.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

Data not available

Funding Scheme

RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)

Coordinator

Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona
EU contribution
No data
Address

08193 Barcelona
Spain
Total cost
No data

Participants (1)