Lund University Researcher Awarded for Diabetes Research Breakthrough
Malmö, Sweden – Ben King, Docent in inflammation research at Lund University’s diabetes center, has been awarded the Medeon Prize in connection with World Diabetes Day Skåne for his innovative research on the proteins C3 and CD59 and their role in protecting insulin-producing beta cells.
Dr. King, who completed postgraduate studies in cancer immunotherapy in the UK, leads research within Anna Blom’s group at Lund University, focusing on the complement system – a crucial part of the immune system. His work investigates the broader functions of complement proteins beyond infection defense, specifically in relation too disease development.
“I was very surprised and feel very honored to receive the award,” says Dr. King. “In my role, I do a lot of experimental research and it’s a lot about trying things out and learning from your mistakes. Conducting experiments can be tough, and thus it feels extra nice that our research is being noticed in this way.”
Dr.King’s research has revealed surprising functions for C3 and CD59 within insulin-producing beta cells, differing from their known roles in the immune system. C3, typically found in the bloodstream, has been shown to protect these cells from damage and death, as published in the journal PNAS. Similarly, CD59, normally a cell-surface protector against immune attack, appears to safeguard the cells’ ability to secrete insulin when located inside the cell.
“With a background in immunology, I am interested in understanding what role proteins in the complement system play in different types of diseases,” explains Dr. King. “Many research groups in diabetes are active near our lab, and that made me start to take an interest in the role these proteins play in the development of diabetic diseases.”
This research, conducted on beta cells from both animals and humans, holds significant promise for the future of diabetes treatment. A key goal for diabetes researchers is developing functional beta cells for transplantation, and understanding the roles of proteins like C3 and CD59 is crucial for ensuring the success of these therapies.
“The knowledge of proteins such as C3 and CD59 can be important for such research, because it is important that the cells transplanted to the patients work well,” Dr. King concludes.
