Our research program focuses on the regulation of pancreatic beta-cell function and its dysregulation in type 2 diabetes. Our goal is to understand how the beta-cell responds to changes in its metabolic environment, in particular the impact of chronically elevated levels of glucose and fatty acids on insulin secretion, insulin gene expression, and beta-cell replication. In addition, we are exploring the role of nutrient-sensing G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) and Regulators of G protein Signaling (RGS proteins) in pancreatic islet function and glucose homeostasis.