Nikki Farnsworth, Ph.D.
Abstract
Currently, 1.25 million people in the United States have type 1 diabetes (T1D), where the prevalence of T1D has increased by ~21% in the last decade. T1D is characterized by the progressive destruction of the insulin producing β-cells in the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. This leads to loss of blood glucose homeostasis which can be deadly if left uncontrolled. The mechanisms underlying disease onset and progression are not well understood, limiting the targets for potential therapeutics which could prevent the onset or progression of T1D. The goals of my research are to 1) understand how disrupted islet function contributes to T1D onset and progression, 2) discover novel mechanisms of β-cell death in T1D and develop targeted therapies to preserve islet function, and 3) determine the role of the islet micro-environment in the onset and progression of T1D. To achieve these goals, I will use a combination of engineering and biomolecular tools including: advanced optical imaging techniques in live cells, quantitative image analysis, and 3D biomimetic hydrogel scaffolds. The results of these studies will identify novel mechanisms regulating islet death and dysfunction in T1D that can be targeted to prevent disease onset or disease progression.
When: February 13, 2025
Where: North Classroom
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00pm