Alan Attie

Genetic Pipeline

Our projects come from genes we identify in our screens using mouse genetics. We then study these genes in transgenic mice and in cell lines.

Gene causal networks and diabetes

By combining global gene expression profiling and genetics, we are able to construct causal networks linking specific genes with diabetes phenotypes. One of those genes is the transcription factor NFATc2. We are studying its regulation in relation to β-cell function and diabetes.

Genetics of metabolic outcome

There is tremendous variability in the response of individuals to different diets. Likewise, mouse strains vary in their response to diet. These responses are due to differences in the control of metabolic pathways. We are conducting a genetic screen using stable isotope tracers to measure metabolic outcome through many pathways in mice subjected to two extreme diets. We will map the genetic drivers responsible for strain differences in diet responsiveness

grow magazine article, Spring 2015, about Attie’s Diabetes research click here.