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Since our founding in 1948, Morris Animal Foundation has funded hundreds of health research studies to protect, treat and cure the world's companion animals and wildlife.
Our studies have led to major advances in veterinary care, including vaccines and other preventions, diagnostic tools and new therapies for the diseases and health conditions that threaten the lives of the animals we love. Search our completed study database by species and/or disease to learn more about how our work has given animals longer, healthier lives.
Category
D05LA-604: Evaluating Techniques for Isolating Pancreatic Islets in South American Camelids
principal investigator: Jennifer S. Hohenlohe, student, Oregon State University
Project Mentor: Christopher K. Cebra, VMD
completed
Year: 1 of 1. $0
Several pathologic conditions have been identified in South American camelids that may result from abnormal carbohydrate metabolism. Camelids' inherently low rate of insulin production may contribute to some of these disorders but has not been studied on the cellular level. Insulin is produced by cells in the pancreas which are arranged in clusters called islets. This project tested a technique for isolating pancreatic islet cells in order to evaluate their function. The technique tested was not successful, possibly because of the specific architecture of the camelid pancreas.
Jennifer says, "Participating in this project with Dr. Cebra has broadened my experience and confirmed my interest in scientific research. Following graduation this spring I will start a small animal internship at OSU. The internship application process is competitive and my research experience likely contributed to the success of my application."
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