Robert Sladek

My research focuses on learning how genetic mutations cause diabetes and other complex diseases. To do this, my group has developed new approaches to identify genetic changes across the whole human genome that are associated with type 2 diabetes, and also to identify the effects of genetic variation on RNA splicing and gene activation in mouse strains and human populations. Current projects in the lab center on developing new experimental techniques to learn how genetic changes within individual genes and proteins can impair cell metabolism and cause diabetes. Reflecting the increasing impact of diabetes and obesity on global health, much of the group’s research in the genetics of diabetes takes place as part of research teams that involve scientists in America, Europe and Asia.