Scientific Highlights
The research of Dr. Maysinger's laboratory has contributed to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of pancreatic islet cell death and long term complications in diabetes. Therapeutic interventions based on novel self-assembly drug delivery systems originated at a time when non-viral delivery of trophic factors and genetically engineered cells had just began. In collaboration with Drs. Shaver and Eisenberg from the Chemistry Department at McGill University, she has investigated small insulinomimetic agents and block copolymer micelles. Long term collaboration with Dr Rosenberg provided insight into the molecular mechanisms of cell death in human islets and they are investigating the effectiveness of a pentadecapeptide derived from Islet Neogenesis Associated Protein (Ingap). As clinical trials with Ingap peptide are in progress, it is becoming clear that there is a critical need for an improved drug delivery system for this candidate antidiabetic drug. Nonviral, biocompatible drug delivery systems should deliver the peptide at levels and rates known to be effective and associated with minimal adverse reactions. Dr. Maysinger's team is developing novel drug delivery methods that will promote islet cells, or progenitor cells that will transform into islet cells, that allow these cells to survive and function (secrete insulin) normally.