Mark Magnuson
About Mark Magnuson
Mark Magnuson is the Director of the Center for Stem Cell Biology and a Professor of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. He specializes in beta cell biology, insulin secretion, glucose homeostasis, diabetes, functional genomics, informatics, and team science.
Title
Mark Magnuson holds the positions of Director at the Center for Stem Cell Biology and Professor of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, United States.
Education and Expertise
Mark Magnuson obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, where he studied from 1975 to 1979. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Chemistry from Luther College, completing his studies there from 1971 to 1975. He specializes in fields including beta cell biology, insulin secretion, glucose homeostasis, diabetes, functional genomics, informatics, and team science.
Research Background
Mark Magnuson's early research focused on the expression, regulation, and function of glucokinase in pancreatic beta cells. He developed an interest in the use of cre recombinase in mice, a tool that has been instrumental in his work. Around a decade ago, he shifted his research to concentrate on directing the differentiation of stem/progenitor cells into pancreatic beta cells and exploring the reprogramming of other cell types to become beta cells. He has also investigated the role of Rictor in cell signaling.
Role in Beta Cell Biology Consortium
Mark Magnuson played a central role in the Beta Cell Biology Consortium funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). His involvement in this consortium highlights his contributions to advancing beta cell biology research and diabetes treatment.