Cellular networks and emergent behavior

We utilize optical imaging and computer models to udenrstand the role of electrical coupling networks and functional sub-populations of cells in affecting the timing and response of hormone secretion within the islets of Langerhans

Molecular mechanisms of diabetes pathogenesis

 We are examining molecular mechanisms of dysfunction to the islets of Langerhans in both type1 and type2 diabetes. Through this, we aim to discover novel targets for therapeutic treatment.

Ultrasound-based imaging diagnostics

We develop and apply novel ultrasound contrast agents and imaging methods for the early diagnosis of type1 diabetes and to track diabetes progression and reversal. We are also developing imaging guided drug delivery approaches for the targeted therapeutic reversal of diabetes

Positions open

We are a highly multidisciplinary lab, whose members have backgrounds in physics, maths, engineering, computer science, biochemistry, physiology. A key mission of our lab is to provide a rewarding training environment to allow researchers to gain new skills and perspectives. Even if no specific openings are described below, please feel free to stop by the lab or email Dr Benninger to discuss options for projects and research training. 

​We have an open position for a PhD student or postdoctoral fellow to work on developing novel ultrasound contrast agents for diagnosis of type1 diabetes ands for therapeutic delivery. An excellent opportunity for training in ultrasound imaging, diabetes, and clinical-translational research

​A number of research projects are available in our group for MS students involving islet or pancreas imaging. 

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Our lab is within the Barbara Davis center; a world leading diabetes center which provides state-of the-art care to children and adults with type 1 diabetes.

Barbara Davis center
1775 Aurora Ct. 
Aurora CO. 80045
(303) 724-6388
​richard.benninger@ucdenver.edu

Come and see our lab's work!

5th Sept. '19

Islet Society 2019 meeting

Maribor, Slovenia
​Vira Kravets will present our lab's work on heterogeneity and connectivity. Title TBD

16th Sept. '19

EASD Annual meeting

Barcelona, Spain
Vira Kravets will give an oral presentation on her abstract 'Beta cell sub-populations: do they control islet function' 

16th Oct. '19

BMES Annual meeting

Philadelphia, PA
David Ramirez will give an oral presentation on his abstract 'Detecting insulitis in preclinical models of type1 diabetes with contrast-enhanced ultrasound and phase change agents' 

14th Jan. '20

NIDDK Symposium: Imaging the pancreas in diabetes, cancer and pancreas disease 

Bethesda, MD
​Richard Benninger will present our labs work on Imaging cell-cell communication in the islet, as well as ultrasound diagnostics for diabetes. 

29th Jan. '20

Keystone Symposium: Islet Biology

Santa Fe, NM
​Richard Benninger will present 'Imaging Islet Heterogeneity and Connectivity'