| Title |
| The role of oxidative stress on autoimmune Type 1 diabetes |
| Description |
| My research seeks to understand the synergy of oxidative stress and autoimmune destruction of insulin-secreting pancreatic beta-cells in Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Oxidative stress and the generation of free radicals are not only important effector molecules in pancreatic beta-cell death, but they also serve to enhance autoimmune responses in T1D. We have focused on dissipating free radicals as a potential target to preserve pancreatic beta-cells and to mediate immune tolerance and suppression of autoreactive T cell responses. To address the significance of free radical synthesis and T1D, we have developed unique animal models to further understand the interplay of free radicals and dysregulated autoimmune responses in T1D. In combination with the knowledge gained from our animal models, we have also initiated translational studies to characterize the efficacy of a powerful catalytic antioxidant to dissipate oxidative stress as a novel immunotherapeutic treatment for the prevention of T1D. |
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