I was fortunate to receive the grant from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation with Dr. Emil Unanue, a world-famous type 1 diabetes researcher.
My group discovered that Wolfram syndrome is caused by the interaction between a particular type of cell stress, ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress, and genetic factors. I believe that the same type of cell stress is involved in type 1 diabetes and autoimmunity. Through our collaboration, we will elucidate a common biological process altered in Wolfram syndrome and type 1 diabetes. Our study can lead to a breakthrough in treatments for Wolfram syndrome and type 1 diabetes. I always appreciate the support from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Here is our press release:
http://endo.wustl.edu/2014/dr-urano-receives-jdrf-funding/
