That I am still investigating diabetes is, in fact, somewhat unexpected from a historical perspective. As a diabetes researcher of nearly 20 years, even in my early days, I heard that "a cure was just around the corner" and "we are close to finding out what causes type 1 diabetes." I'm not meaning to sound sarcastic or disrespectful, just looking back, but we obviously failed to have a full appreciation of the complexity of this disorder.

  What role did practical support (facilities, funding, etc.) play?

My career has been supported by many elements, each playing a key role in diverse ways. Family and patients with diabetes for emotional support, a great mentor to teach me science, active foundations to provide funding support and direction (i.e., the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, American Diabetes Association), and study sections to keep me humble!

  How do you see the current state of affairs in your field and its prospects for the future?

The prospects for the future are VERY promising. In fact, it is hard to pick a single area that offers the most promise: gene therapy, stem cells, new pharmaceuticals, understanding immune tolerance, new genetic and immunologic markers of disease activity.

  What are the implications of your work for the future of your field in terms of clinical/therapeutic applications/products?

As one who seeks to be in "translation research," questioning the potential implications is always subject to practical realities. It is my hope that the research I perform will change the way diabetes is identified, lead to a means to prevent the disease from occurring, and to reverse the disease in those already diagnosed. Lofty goals, but with the colleagues I work with and others, I am optimistic that they can be achieved.

  What would you rate as your most difficult or trying professional moment?

Grant review panels! Having to see good science go unfunded and sitting in a position of deciding who does/does not get funded. A big responsibility that while I do it often, I always find difficult.

  Which of your professional achievements brings you the most satisfaction?

Meeting with persons with diabetes who say I am providing them "hope."

  Aside from your scientific career, what is your greatest or most compelling ambition in life?

Aside from being the best husband and father to my wife and children, my second ambition is to pack my career up and go serve as a medical missionary in a third-world country (something I already attempt to do on an annual basis).

Mark A. Atkinson, Ph.D.
University of Florida
College of Medicine
Gainesville, FL, USA