Supporting innovative research to improve human health“Insulin is produced by specialized cells called pancreatic beta cells. Inside each beta cell is an entire manufacturing plant designed to synthesize insulin’s precursor molecule and fold and package it for secretion. If it’s not properly folded, it can’t make insulin and the beta cells become stressed. The big question for scientists is how can we prevent this from happening?” Peter Arvan, M.D., Ph.D. |
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What does origami have to do with diabetes? In both cases, says Peter Arvan, it’s all about the shape. Too many misfolded proteins can kill pancreatic beta cells, cutting off the body’s supply of life-giving insulin. Arvan and his research team are searching for ways to help these cells prevent protein folding problems, because keeping pancreatic beta cells alive and producing insulin is the key to preventing diabetes. As they study how to keep beta cells from dying, U-M scientists also are looking for ways to coax other cells into producing a form of genetically engineered insulin. This gene therapy for diabetes may still be years away, but Arvan is working to bring it closer every day.