The Easley laboratory is focused on the development of novel microanalytical techniques that allow us to perform unique experiment on biological systems.  In particular, we are interested in studying the fundamental chemical and biophysical behaviors of pancreatic islets of Langerhans, which are the functional units of insulin secretion that help to maintain blood glucose homeostasis.  Debilitating conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome are fundamentally linked to this tissue.

    Our laboratory utilizes various techniques such as fluorescence microscopy, microfluidic droplet sampling,  optical spectroscopy, and electrophoresis to image these cells and measure their secretions in response to specific stimuli.  We are also using molecular biology to develop custom fluorescent sensors for measurement of peptide hormone secretions from islets such as insulin, glucagon, and C-peptide.  Please feel free to browse through our website for more detailed discussions of these projects.