Protein found that regulates glucose in humans, not in mice

A team of scientists, who were led by UCSF School of Pharmacy faculty member Frances Brodsky, DPhil, have found in humans a protein responsible for glucose metabolism that is not present in mice. Since mice are often used as models when studying diabetes and other diseases, the often unknown differences between mice and humans can create obstacles to direct translation of research. As a result, they need to be taken into account in understanding the progression of human disease, according to the researchers. The paper appeared in the May 29, 2009 issue of Science. Collaborators included scientists from UCSF, Harvard University Medical School, and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

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UCSF Discovers New Glucose-regulating Protein Linked with Diabetes

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A Role for the CHC22 Clathrin Heavy-Chain Isoform in Human Glucose Metabolism, Science, May 29, 2009

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About the School: The UCSF School of Pharmacy aims to solve the most pressing health care problems and strives to ensure that each patient receives the safest, most effective treatments. Our discoveries seed the development of novel therapies, and our researchers consistently lead the nation in NIH funding. The School’s doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) degree program, with its unique emphasis on scientific thinking, prepares students to be critical thinkers and leaders in their field.