Adipose tissue biology, Nutrient Signaling and ObesityAdipose tissue biology
Our laboratory is studying how adipocytes organize into tissue and the role of cell-cell and cell matrix interactions in adipocyte physiology. We have a unique model system to study how isolated adipocytes organize into tissue and are interested in the cell signals that are generated to drive adipose tissue morphogenesis. The figure above shows an intermediate in the organization of adipocytes into tissue structures in vitro. This project is heavily utilizes proteomics and molecular approaches to determining the physiological role of proteins whose expression is affected by cell-cell/cell matrix interactions and other morphogenesis-related events. Nutrient Signaling
We are interested in the signals present from a meal that regulate adipose tissue growth. Current studies in the lab are focused on insulin-like signaling capability of the amino acid leucine. Our focus is on translational regulation of leptin secretion, protein synthesis as well as adipose differentiation, tissue morphogenesis and hypertrophic growth. Leucine is a direct acting nutrient signal that stimulates protein synthesis in fat cells by activating at least two signaling pathways that impact protein synthesis. One of these involves the Ser/Thr protein kinase, mTOR. Our research is focused on how leucine accomplishes the activation of these pathways. We are also interested in how the signaling from leucine is terminated and these studies focus on intramitochondrial metabolism of leucine, its regulation and its relationship to leucine signaling. Obesity
Current studies are focused on drug-induced models of obesity and weight loss. A number of drugs have unexplained side effects that result in unexplained or unexpected weight loss or weight gain. Determining the mechanism of these side effects may lead both to the discovery of new drugs, with reduced side effects and to new targets for the treatment of obesity. We need help! Obesity is a growing epidemic in our country. Because of this, obesity research is a growing research field with good prospects for the future. Our well-equipped lab is in room C4757. Please stop by for a visit or call ext 5170 or email: clynch@psu.edu | 
