My principal research interests lie in the field of cell and molecular biology of the insulin-producing β-cells. My key areas of expertise are in vitro and ex vivo models of β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis in relation to type 1 diabetes. My research focuses on understanding the role of the type 1 diabetes candidates genes in relation to β-cell function and type 1 diabetes development.

My current research focuses on unraveling the functions of the cathepsin protease family in the β-cells and their potential involvement in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes.

Expert in culture of mammalian cell lines and primary tissue, isolation of mouse pancreatic islets, transient and stable transfection, viability and apoptosis assays, ELISA, extraction of RNA/protein/DNA, real-time qPCR, genotyping, western blotting and gel electrophoresis. Experienced in tissue harvesting, immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry and transmission electron microscopy.