The effects of growth factors on proliferation of adult porcine islets in vitro / by Christa M. Donofrio.
| Author/creator | Donofrio, Christa M. author. |
| Other author | Klann, Richard C., degree supervisor. |
| Other author | East Carolina University. Department of Biology. |
| Format | Theses and dissertations |
| Production | 1997. |
| Description | 61 leaves : illustrations (some color) ; 28 cm |
| Supplemental Content | Access via ScholarShip |
| Subjects |
| Summary | The islets of Langerhans play a pivotal role in the metabolism of glucose. Researchers experimenting with transplantation as a possible cure for insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, have used isolated porcine islets due to the similarities between the human and pig insulin molecules. In order to provide an ample supply of islets, the cells must proliferate in vitro and maintain the ability to secrete insulin Growth factors may induce the islets to proliferate in vitro. It has been reported that IGF-I, IGF-II, and PDGF increase fetal islet proliferation, although it has not been shown that they stimulate growth in adult porcine islets It is also unknown whether HGF has any affect on adult or fetal islets. The goal of this project was to determine the response of isolated adult porcine islets to several candidate growth factors in vitro. Gene expression was also examined Viability testing was conducted to ensure that the islet clusters remained intact during the duration of the growth factor experiments. It was determined that over 60% of the clusters remain after 14 days in culture. IGF-I and IGF-II did not affect cell proliferation concurring with previous findings. PDGF and HGF each facilitated dose-dependent increases in [³H] thymidine incorporation and specific activity. Adult porcine islets express the gene PGP 9.5 and low levels of proinsulin suggesting that the cells may have become dedifferentiated in association with morphological changes during survival in culture, but have maintained the ability to produce insulin. |
| General note | Submitted to the faculty of the Department of Biology. |
| General note | Advisor: Richard C. Klann |
| Dissertation note | M.S. East Carolina University 1997 |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 59-61). |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Thèses et écrits académiques. |
Availability
| Library | Location | Call Number | Status | Item Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joyner | University Archives | ASK AT SPECIAL COLLECTIONS DESK | ✔ Available | Request Material |
| Electronic Resources | ✔ Available |