Research in the Rita Kalyani Lab examines the decreased physical functioning observed in patien...ts with diabetes as they age. Through several ongoing epidemiological cohorts, we are investigating the association of high blood glucose and high insulin levels with accelerated muscle loss, and possible contributions to the physical disability observed in diabetes. We are currently involved in clinical studies that aim to understand the underlying mechanisms for these associations and to facilitate the development of novel strategies to prevent muscle loss and disability in people with diabetes. view more

Our research aims to expand the understanding of how hormones regulate pancreatic islets in hea...lth and disease.

Currently, a major focus of the lab is to define the normal adaptations of islets, particularly insulin-producing beta-cells, to the metabolic stress of pregnancy, and to determine how defective adaptation contributes to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

We anticipate that elucidating physiologic mechanisms of gestational beta-cell adaptation will identify novel therapeutic strategies to expand functional beta-cell mass which would help in the treatment of all types of diabetes. view more

Effective immune responses are critical for control of a variety of infectious disease includin...g bacterial, viral and protozoan infections as well as in protection from development of tumors. Central to the development of an effective immune response is the T lymphocyte which, as part of the adaptive immune system, is central in achieving sterilization and long lasting immunity. While the normal immune responses is tightly regulated there are also notable defects leading to pathologic diseases. Inactivity of tumor antigen-specific T cells, either by suppression or passive ignorance allows tumors to grow and eventually actively suppress the immune response. Conversely, hyperactivation of antigen-specific T cells to self antigens is the underlying basis for many autoimmune diseases including: multiple sclerosis; arthritis; and diabetes. Secondary to their central role in a wide variety of physiologic and pathophysiologic responses my lab takes a broad-based approach to studying T cell responses. view more

Research in the Sherita Golden Lab focuses on identifying endocrine risk factors associated wit...h the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. We conduct our research by incorporating measures of hormonal function into the design of clinical trials of cardiovascular risk modification, observational studies of incident cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and studies evaluating diabetic complications. view more

Our research interest is crystalized into three main areas:
1. Type-1 diabetes - Our focus is... on understanding how the Fas death pathway regulates the disease and how extracted information can be used to protect high risk individuals and those with new-onset disease.
2. Type 2 diabetes and Obesity - Our lab is studying the role of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) in regulating body fat and glucose clearance.
3. Double negative ??T cells - Our studies suggest a critical role for these cells in protecting kidneys from Ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). Our current focus is understanding their origin and physiological functions.
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The Thomas W. Donner Lab focuses on type 1 and type 2 diabetes, with an emphasis on the prevent...ion of complications in patients with these conditions. We’re currently collaborating with Dr. Abdel Hamad to inhibit B-regulatory cell apoptosis through a novel monoclonal antibody that targets the probable apoptotic factor. We also lead a multi-center, international consortium of researchers studying ways to prevent type 1 diabetes and preserve insulin secretion in people who have been recently diagnosed with the chronic condition. view more

The Todd Brown Lab focuses on metabolic, endocrine and skeletal abnormalities in HIV-infected p...atients, particularly as these factors relate to aging. Our studies take an epidemiologic approach to understanding the occurrence and prevalence of insulin resistance, diabetes, and anthropometric changes in HIV patients and their relationship to antiretroviral treatment. view more