Introduction to the topic
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the destruction of β cells, the cells responsible for insulin production. When there is no or limited insulin, it is difficult for the body to keep a normal blood glucose level. Therefore, for blood glucose regulation, patients need to inject insulin routinely.
However, studies have shown that patients still have residual β cell mass and activity years after diagnosis. Therefore it is vital to protect, maintain, or regenerate these ß cell masses and determine if the patient’s need for insulin injection can be reduced, potentially paving the way for the development of therapeutic approaches for maintaining, recovering, or regenerating β cell mass.
One promising approach involves the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their secretome, the set of molecules and biological factors that are secreted by a cell into the extracellular space. Secretome mainly mediate the therapeutic effect of MSCs. MSC’s secretome showed promising results in treating several disorders and we like to use them for T1D.
Project details
In the current project, we evaluate the protective and regenerative molecular mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cells and their secretome in in vitro models. Candidates with a strong interest in lab work who are motivated to develop new skills will be learning/working on different stem cell sources, isolate secretome, and test their protective effect on β cell models at molecular levels.
Research Assistantship Hours
You will spend 180 hours directly engaged in research, together with 20 hours in co-curricular activities, during your RAship.
Field Studies: Culture & Language
As a co-curricular complement to your summer research, you will meet every Wednesday, together with faculty from the DIS European Humanities program, for a 6-week introduction to culture and language in Copenhagen.
Prerequisites
One year of biology and one year of chemistry at the university level.
Additional application required
You must submit an additional application through the Online Registration portal.
All application materials must be submitted by 23:59 Central European Time on March 15.
Faculty
Reza Yarani
FacultyPh.D (Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Copenhagen, 2016). Assistant Professor, Translational Type 1 Diabetes Research, Department of Clinical Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, 2021-Present. With DIS since 2023.
More information about your Research Assistantship
Learn more about the Labs, Research, and Practicums Summer Session.