The Roger’s lab uses progenitor cells and human pluripotent stem cells as a basis for developing cell based therapies for the treatment of Diabetic symptoms. We are investigating the wound healing properties of blood cells and mesenchymal cells in a model of Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) and Diabetic skin wounds. My lab has demonstrated that these cells have strong paracrine signaling that can reduce inflammation and apoptosis while promoting angiogenesis. Together, this results in superior tissue repair.

The Rogers’ lab is also focused on studying diabetic nephropathy through the development of 3D culture systems. Using decellularized kidneys from mouse and porcine as a substrate we can interrogate the role of the ECM in kidney regeneration. Human iPSC made from blood or cells in the urine are differentiated into renal progenitor cells and applied to the acellular ECM. This project allows for investigating the role of stem cells and their niche. By using decellularized kidney from healthy and diabetic mice (or humans) coupled with kidney progenitor and mature cells from healthy and diabetic sources, we can determine if diabetes is affecting the niche or the progenitor cells.