Laboratory of Pancreatic Islet Research

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Laboratory of Pancreatic Islet Research - rm1g7hz1ph3tkwq9a53j

About the Laboratory

The ability of β-cells to function as glucose sensors is crucial for maintaining glucose homeostasis throughout life. A decline in β-cell function and quantity is a key indicator of diabetes onset and progression. The activity of β-cells is closely interlinked with other endocrine cells in the pancreatic islets. While insulin was discovered over a century ago (in 1922) and its main secretion pathways are well understood, much remains unknown about the molecular mechanisms within β-cells and pancreatic islets. This knowledge is essential for developing effective strategies to prevent and treat diabetes, one of the most pressing global health challenges.


Our laboratory focuses on exploring the role of redox homeostasis in insulin secretion under both normal physiological conditions and in the context of pathological pro-oxidative signaling, which contributes to diabetes development. We employ a range of models, from cell cultures and isolated mouse islets of Langerhans to whole-animal studies in mice, to investigate pancreatic β-cell and islet biology. By combining innovative experimental approaches with advanced omics technologies, we aim to uncover new insights that can drive the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

Laboratory of Pancreatic Islet Research - islets movement

Fluorescent insulin injected into a mouse pancreatic islet

 

Achievements

We successfully identified the role of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) in regulating glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (Plecitá-Hlavatá, L., 2020, Diabetes). Additionally, we have uncovered key protein targets involved in this redox signaling pathway (Holendova, B., 2024, Metabolism). Our research also demonstrated that chronic NOX4 activity, triggered by metabolic stress such as prolonged overeating, leads to inflammasome activation and localized inflammation (Holendova, B., 2024, Obesity).

Publications

Holendová; Blanka - Benáková; Štěpánka - Křivonosková; Monika - Pavluch; Vojtěch - Tauber; Jan - Gabrielová; E. - Ježek; Petr - Plecitá-Hlavatá; Lydie NADPH oxidase 4 in mouse ? cells participates in inflammation on chronic nutrient overload. Obesity. 2024; 32(2); 339-351.

IF = 6.9

People

Head of Laboratory

Deputy Head of Laboratory

Laboratory staff

Tel: 2447
Email: stepanka.benakova@fgu.cas.cz
Vědecký asistent
Tel: 2430
Email: blanka.holendova@fgu.cas.cz
Tel: 2447
Email: monika.krivonoskova@fgu.cas.cz
Vědecký pracovník
Tel: 2430
Email: lydie.plecita@fgu.cas.cz
Tel: 2447
Email: linda.stokicova@fgu.cas.cz
Laborantka
Tel: 2447
Email: ludmila.svobodova@fgu.cas.cz