Diabetes and Metabolic Modeling Core

The Diabetes and Metabolic Modeling Core (DMMC) supports the design, production and sharing of mouse and human models of diabetes and its complications. These models include genome-edited mice, genetically modified human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), and hiPSC-derived organoid models. 

The DMMC enables Vanderbilt Diabetes Research Center investigators to complement and extend their use of mouse models or human model systems. This DMMC structure enables modern gene-editing technologies to be applied to organoids and provides support and services for VDRC investigators to efficiently develop and use alternative models. The DMMC assists VDRC members’ efforts to better align their diabetes research with NIH priorities, emphasizing human-based new approach methodologies (NAMs). 

The DMMC core provides three complementary service areas:

• mouse models
• human models
• user training

The overarching goal of the DMMC is to accelerate our understanding of the pathogenesis and complications of diabetes by providing reliable, timely, state-of-the-art modeling capabilities. DMMC efforts, which are diabetes-specific, complement the outstanding expertise in the Vanderbilt Genome Editing Resource. The DMMC, together with BioVU, Vanderbilt's unique biorepository of DNA and patient samples, is working to generate genetically personalized disease models. 

The DMMC is led by experts in gene editing, genetically modified mice, and human organoids (Drs. Magnuson, Woodard) and supported by technical staff with over 20 years’ experience. For more information about DMMC services and pricing, please contact Mark Magnuson or Lauren Woodard.