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.
