The scientific mission of the Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch (PECRB) is to determine the etiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. We have used several different scientific approaches to find the cause of the disease including (1) epidemiologic (Knowler, Hanson, and Nelson); (2) clinical physiologic (Krakoff); and (3) molecular genetic approaches (Baier).
In few other laboratories in the world are scientists from such diverse backgrounds working together to apply the latest techniques in each discipline to solve a single problem. Due to this, the branch has made substantial progress in identifying the physiologic and genetic determinants of diabetes and its risk factors. In addition, several clinical trials have been conducted to intervene in the natural history of this disease to prevent the development of diabetes and the resulting and severe complications.
The branch welcomes new investigators to work in the field, in the clinical research center, and/or in the basic laboratories to help develop new ideas and strategies to achieve our scientific goals and, ultimately, to prevent this disease.