Unmet NeedThe escalating type-2 diabetes (T2D) epidemic is a major global health concern. Genes affecting risk for T2D include the zinc transporter gene ZnT8. There exist a need for better production, purification, reconstitution and functional characterization of the human ZnT8, and improved methods for detection and treatment of T2D.Technology OverviewThe present invention provides methods of identifying drugs for the treatment or prevention of diabetes by measuring the activity of the human zinc transporter ZnT8 and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. Human ZnT8 was over-expressed in a stable human cell line, purified and reconstituted into proteoliposomes. The lipid composition was optimized to yield native ZnT8 activity. Stage of DevelopmentFirst purification of human ZnT8 in a functional form.First reconstitution of human ZnT8 with a native zinc transport activity.First in-vitro functional assay for human ZnT8.
