"Beta-cell replication occurs naturally in diet-induced obesity and in pregnancy, so this process gives us a target for therapy," Dr. Kulkarni notes.

It is still unclear whether cyclin D2 is expressed in human beta cells, so the researchers next will look for its analog in humans. "Our challenges are first, to figure if there's a similar protein in humans which is exclusive to the beta cells, and second, to find an injectable therapy which can home in on the beta cells," he says.

Dr. Kulkarni adds that the research also holds implications for work in his own lab and many other labs that seek to create beta cells from induced pluripotent stem (IPS) cells, adult cells transformed to a state like that of embryonic stem cells. "One could envision expanding beta cells created from IPS cells in vitro and then transplanting them," he says. "In that case, it will be extremely useful to identify proteins like cyclin D2 that are helpful for replication."

Source: Joslin Diabetes Center