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Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Analysis of Beta-cell Function Using Single-cell Resolution Calcium Imaging in Zebrafish Islets
Published on: July 3, 2018
All-encomPASsing regulation of β-cells: PAS domain proteins in β-cell dysfunction and diabetes
Paul V Sabatini1, Francis C Lynn1
1Diabetes Research Group, Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; The Departments of Surgery and Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4 Canada.
Abstract:
As a sensory micro-organ, pancreatic β-cells continually respond to nutritional signals and neuroendocrine input from other glucoregulatory organs. This sensory ability is essential for normal β-cell function and systemic glucose homeostasis. Period circadian protein (Per)-aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein (Arnt)-single-minded protein (Sim) (PAS) domain proteins have a conserved role as sensory proteins, critical in adaptation to changes in voltage, oxygen potential, and xenobiotics. Within β-cells, PAS domain proteins such as hypoxia inducible factor 1α (Hif1α), Arnt, PAS kinase, Bmal1, and Clock respond to disparate stimuli, but act in concert to maintain proper β-cell function. Elucidating the function of these factors in islets offers a unique insight into the sensing capacity of β-cells, the consequences of impaired sensory function, and the potential to develop novel therapeutic targets for preserving β-cell function in diabetes.
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