Research in the Coate laboratory seeks to identify mechanisms that govern the function and identity of human pancreatic islet cells in health and disease.
Our work relies heavily on the use of human cadaveric donor islets coupled with specific genetic targeting of insulin producing beta or glucagon producing alpha cells, static and dynamic assessments of hormone secretion, bulk and single cell RNA-sequencing, chromatin profiling, immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy, and transplantation of human islets into immune compromised mice for in vivo studies.
Our goal is to foster an inclusive and interactive lab environment that values scientific curiosity, personal and professional integrity, excellence in all areas of work, and lifelong learning. If you are interested in joining our dynamic team, please contact Dr. Coate at Kathryn.coate@vanderbilt.edu.