Salk researchers find a new route for regulating blood sugar levels independent of insulin
The discovery of insulin 100 years ago opened a door that would lead to life and hope for millions of people with diabetes. Ever since then, insulin, produced in the pancreas, has been considered the primary means of treating conditions characterized by high blood sugar (glucose), such as diabetes. Now, Professor Ronald Evanshas discovered a second molecule, produced in fat tissue, that, like insulin, also potently and rapidly regulates blood glucose. Their finding could lead to the development of new therapies for treating diabetes.
Active ingredient in cannabis protects aging brain cells
Decades of research on medical cannabis has focused on the compounds THC and CBD in clinical applications. But less is known about the therapeutic properties of cannabinol (CBN). A new study led by Research Professor Pamela Maher shows how cannabinol (CBN) can protect nerve cells from oxidative damage, a major pathway to cell death. The findings suggest CBN has the potential for treating age-related neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Plants rely on the CLASSY gene family to diversify their epigenomes
Associate Professor Julie Law has shown that the CLASSY gene family regulates which parts of the genome are turned off in a tissue-specific manner. The CLASSYs essentially control where the genome is marked by DNA methylation—the addition of methyl chemical groups to the DNA that act like tags saying, “turn off.” Because DNA methylation exists across diverse organisms, including plants and animals, this research has broad implications for both agriculture and medicine.
Professor Samuel Pfaff has been named a 2021 Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest general scientific society and publisher of the journal Science. Pfaff is among 564 new AAAS Fellows who were nominated by their peers for their distinguished efforts to advance science.
Ronald Evans awarded $1.2 million by Larry L. Hillblom Foundation to study diabetes
Professor Ronald Evans will receive $1.2 million over four years as part of a Network Grant from the Larry L. Hillblom Foundation to examine a molecular pathway that regulates blood sugar and fat independent of insulin. The research will advance our understanding of type 2 diabetes and could lead to the development of new therapies for treating the disease.
Salk Institute announces departure of Professor Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte
Professor Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte, a world-renowned researcher who has pioneered innovations in developmental biology, regenerative medicine and aging research at the Salk Institute, will be closing his Salk laboratory to join Altos Labs, a newly created life sciences company centered on human health research.
Salk Institute Trustees elect Marna C. Whittington as Board chair
Marna Whittington, the former CEO of Allianz Global Investors Capital, was elected as chair of Salk’s Board of Trustees. Her leadership comes at a critical time as Salk’s recently launched Campaign for the Future seeks to meet the capital and scientific aspirations of the Institute.
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