Events -- Beta Cell Interest Group (BIG)

Early Pancreas Development and Endocrine Fate Specification

Dr. Jacob Hecksher-Sorensen
Staff Scientist
Hagedorn Research Institute
Copenhagen, Denmark

To better understand key events in pancreas morphogenesis we have used 3D confocal microscopy to generate a high resolution expression analysis of early pancreas development. In particular we are interested in the events taking place directly following the activation of Ngn3. Work with Arx and Pax4 have shown that at this time point the endocrine progenitors are multi potent and inactivation of these two genes will alter the distribution of endocrine cells without affecting the total number of cells. So in order to control and manipulate endocrine fate if we need a better understanding the molecular events taking place directly downstream of Ngn3.

About this ongoing activity:

The Vanderbilt Center for Stem Cell Biology (VCSCB) sponsors a weekly Beta Cell Interest Group (BIG) meeting for invited Vanderbilt faculty, research assistants and students to discuss topics relating to beta cell biology. BIG meetings are held on Wednesdays from 9:00-10:00 AM in 512 Light Hall.