Human Islets
Obtaining Human Islets
The NIH (NIDDK and NCRR) and the JDRF are now jointly supporting a human islet distribution program
(more information at the web site for the Islet Cell Resource Centers - click HERE). Through this program, any investigator can apply to receive human islets for research purposes,
with priority to investigators with NIH or JDRF funding.
The IPA Core will assist DRTC-affiliated investigators in studies with human islets. First, the investigator applies to the ICR program. After being approved by the ICR, the investigator will be eligible to receive human islets and will notify the IPA Core when they arrive at Vanderbilt. The IPA Core will hand-pick human islets under microscopic guidance to achieve greater than 95% purity (very few single cells, no pancreatic fragments or ducts). Hand-picking human islets is considerably more difficult than for rodent islets. We believe this step is critical in ensuring that the mRNA and protein analyzed is truly from human islet cells and for selecting healthy islets for analysis.
For assistance, contact Alvin C. Powers, M.D., DRTC Director.
Analysis
The islet core provides assessment of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by human islets using a cell perifusion system.
For assistance with these procedures contact us:
Marcela Brissova, IPA Core Director
Anastasia Coldren, Research Assistant
Wendell Nicholson, Senior Research Specialist
