DERC
Baylor College of Medicine is the newest member of an integrated program for diabetes and related endocrinology and metabolism research overseen by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Information on all ongoing NIDDK Diabetes Research Centers can be found at www.diabetescenters.org.
Housed in the Margaret M. Alkek Building for Biomedical Research, the BCM Diabetes and Endocrinology Research Center:
- Serves a biomedical research base of 57 researchers in 8 different departments of the college
- Provides support via research core laboratories
- Presents enrichment opportunities via meetings and seminars
- Offers a Pilot and Feasibility Program
Advancing diabetes research
Receiving its designation in January 2008, the Houston-based DERC is the only NIH diabetes center in Texas and one of 17 nationwide. Hear comments from Center Director Dr. Lawrence Chan (RealPlayer required).
Dr. Lawrence Chan speaks about diabetes and the NIH designation of BCM's Diabetes and Endocrinology Research Center.
Research Areas
The BCM DERC covers four major research areas:
- Clinical diabetes, metabolism and nutrition research
- Basic and translational research in biology, physiology, complications and therapy of diabetes
- Molecular endocrinology
- Adipogenesis and metabolism
Ming-Jer Tsai, Ph.D., DERC co-director and associate director for Biomedical Research and Core Resources, works closely with researchers in all four areas, promoting collaboration, core usage and program enrichment; encouraging submission of pilot and feasibility projects; participating in meetings to promote scientific exchange and disseminate information about the DERC; and coordinating with the DERC director and advisory committees to identify new directions for core services.
Diabetes research at BCM is conducted in multiple departments, programs and centers, which will result in meaningful collaborations among its members. The center also collaborates with other NIH/NIDDK centers and acts as a national resource on diabetes and diabetes research.