Research

Alpha cell physiology and pathophysiology

Glucagon is secreted by alpha cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans to stimulate glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis in response to low blood glucose, amino acids, and free fatty acids. In diabetes, hypersecretion of glucagon can contribute to postprandial hyperglycaemia, while an insufficient glucagon response to falling blood glucose levels can lead to hypoglycaemia. In contrast to the detailed exploration of molecular mechanisms underlying insulin secretion from beta cells, the mechanisms regulating alpha-cell activity and glucagon secretion remain largely unclear and debated. We are super interested in exploring the regulation mechanisms of glucagon secretion.

Subcellular proteomics

Systemic transcriptomic and proteomic analyses have identified key targets correlated to insulin or glucagon secretion. Those correlative analyses have mainly depended on the transcript or protein abundance, while key regulatory mechanisms have been neglected. Importantly, the same protein localized in different cellular compartments may have distinct functions. We are interested in understanding this dynamic process, since it is critical to elucidate mechanisms of diabetes susceptibility and pathogenesis, define goals for regenerative and stem cell therapies, and provide insight into targets and pathways that may be exploited for diabetes (T2D and T1D) treatment, remission, or prevention.