Rita T. Brookheart, PhD

Research Interest

Complications

Metabolic Regulation

Prevention / Control

---

Category(ies) of Research

Basic

Translational

---

Descriptor of Research

Our research focuses on identifying novel regulators of metabolism with the goal of understanding their role in metabolic complications associated with obesity and diabetes. Our current interests include examining the intersection of metabolism and cellular stress responses in skeletal muscle, the heart, and adipose tissue. We use cell culture, transgenic mouse models, and cellular and molecular biology techniques to identify and examine these key metabolic regulators and to elucidate their function in human disease. The long-term goal of our studies is to develop new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of diabetes and obesity-associated metabolic abnormalities.