The major focus of Sander's current research is to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the ability of pluripotent stem cells, or progenitor cells, to produce the different cell types of the pancreas. Specifically, she and her team want to be able to instruct patient-derived pluripotent stem cells to become beta cells.

Since the first pioneering work on islet transplantation, it has become clear that a cell-based approach for the treatment of type 1 diabetes can have significant benefits in terms of insulin independence and a reduced risk of hypoglycemia.

"Right now, scientists can create pancreatic progenitor cells from human embryonic stem cells. However, our goal is to take it a step further and make replacement beta cells from the patient's own tissue," Sander said. "This grant is a perfect example of collaboration and translational medicine for a greater cause. It's not about who discovers the cure first. It's about finding a cure - fast."

Source: University of California -- San Diego