Katrina Viloria

Biography

My research focuses on investigating the role of actin regulating proteins in controlling GLP1-R signaling and trafficking. I am interested in studying actin binding proteins as a tool to target F-actin remodelling and GLP1-R signaling in beta cells. GLP1-R binds to GLP-1 agonists, which are important treatment for type 2 diabetes. Understanding the mechanisms of GLP1-R signaling may help us improve the action of GLP-1 therapeutics.

Background:

I completed my undergraduate BSc degree in Biology at the University of Alaska Anchorage. I then moved to the UK to acquire my Masters in Biotechnology at Kingston University London. It was also at Kingston that I continued my research to pursue a PhD investigating SPARC matricellular proteins and their role in beta cell function and insulin secretion. Following my PhD, I came to the University of Birmingham as a Post Doc where I studied the role of GC-globulin/ vitamin-D binding protein in alpha cell function and glucagon secretion.

Research Interests
diabetes, insulin secretion, islet biology