The Laboratory of the Studies of the Molecular Mechanisms of β cell death aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in pancreatic β cell demise that leads to the development of Diabetes mellitus. These cells are responsible for production and secretion of insulin, a hypoglycemic hormone – thus its dysfunction and death leads to the chronic hyperglycemia observed in Diabetes mellitus.

Currently, we investigate the molecular mechanisms that lead to β cell dysfunction and death in models of Type 1 Diabetes mellitus (T1DM), with an emphasis on the role of the transcription factor HNF4-α and the enzymes of the NADPH oxidase family. In addition, we evaluate the mechanisms involved in the beneficial effects of physical exercise in protecting β cells in T1DM models. 

A better understanding of these pathways may allow the use of this knowledge in the development of therapeutic strategies preventing β cell destruction during insulitis and after Langerhans islet transplant in clinic models of the disease and in patients.