The Novak lab focusses on elucidating the role of purinergic signalling in pancreas in health and disease. We have the following primary areas of research: 1) Establishing the mechanism and regulation of ATP release in pancreatic exocrine and endocrine cells. We are especially interested in VNUT as a releasing mechanism. 2) Adenosine and P2 receptor mediated regulation of ion transport in pancreatic duct epithelia. Potentiation of pancreatic secretion could be exploited in therapies for cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis. 3) Role of purinergic signaling in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and pancreatic fibrosis. Here we focus on the role of P2X7 receptor in pancreatic cancer cells and fibrogenic pancreatic stellate cells. We use a spectrum of models and techniques, including advanced bioimaging techniques and electrophysiology. Visit the lab’s website to learn more.
KEY PUBLICATIONS
Giannuzzo A, Pedersen SF, Novak I (2015) The P2X7 receptor regulates cell survival, migration and invasion of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. Mol Cancer. 14(1):203.
Haanes KA, Kowal JM, , Arpino G, Lange S, l J, Moriyama Y, Pedersen PA and Novak I (2014) Role of vesicular nucleotide transporter VNUT (SLC17A9) in release of ATP from AR42J cells and mouse pancreatic acinar Purinergic Signal. 10(3):431-40.
Burnstock G and Novak I (2013) Purinergic signalling and diabetes. Purinergic Signal. 9(3):307-24.