Development of small molecule-based methods for targeted cargo delivery to beta cells

Broad Institute, Inc., Cambridge MA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY A loss of ?-cell mass and biologically active insulin is a key feature of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Thus, increasing ?-cell mass, for example with small molecules, has become an area of major research interest in the diabetes community. Our groups have recently reported the discovery of small molecules capable of inducing human ?-cell proliferation; however, the potential for inducing wide-ranging proliferation across multiple tissues and cell types makes such an approach risky. Here, we aim to develop a zinc-based prodrug (ZnPD) system for targeted ?-cell delivery of small molecules that promote ?-cell proliferation. This system will enable us to perform early-stage preclinical validation that selective ?-cell delivery will be safer and more effective than nonselective systemic administration.