Personal Statement

My research focuses on discovering neural circuits that regulate metabolic balance in the context of obesity, diabetes and aging. My laboratory investigates how central and peripheral sensory circuits influence metabolic health, adipose tissue function and the aging process. Our mission is to identify novel target genes and neural pathways that contribute to the development of obesity and diabetes and to design preclinical strategies to improve metabolic function in mouse models of disease.

Our recent work has identified a novel population of cholecystokinin-expressing neurons in the dorsomedial hypothalamus that regulates feeding, energy expenditure and adipose tissue expansion. We have also uncovered a key role for supraoptic hypothalamic vasopressin neurons in regulating core body temperature and water intake. Remarkably, the physiological functions of these neuronal populations are sexually dimorphic. Dysfunction of these circuits contributes to weight gain, insulin resistance and accelerated physiological aging. More broadly, my laboratory seeks to understand how neural regulation of metabolism intersects with neurodegeneration and age-related disease.

During my doctoral training, I developed expertise in sensory physiology by investigating the role of chemosensory receptors in gustatory perception. Fascinated by the potential role of chemosensory circuits in regulating lifespan, I subsequently joined the laboratory of Andrew Dillin, PhD, for my postdoctoral studies. My work focused on understanding how sensory circuits regulate metabolic health and lifespan in both nematodes and mice. Building on findings in nematodes, we identified an evolutionarily conserved circuit involving peripheral sensory neurons originating in the dorsal root ganglia. These neurons detect internal stress signals and can influence nutrient signaling in insulin-sensitive tissues to regulate longevity in mice.

After receiving a Pathway Program Initiator Award from the American Diabetes Association, I continued to investigate chemosensory neurons that modulate metabolic health. In 2017, my work identified a role for olfactory inputs in regulating energy balance, in addition to intrinsic signals released by peripheral tissues.

My independent research has revealed several important roles for neural systems in metabolism and physiology. My team's findings highlight how distinct neural populations coordinate metabolism, thermoregulation and the aging process. Our studies also demonstrate that the physiological functions of these circuits can be sexually dimorphic.

In addition to leading my research program, I am committed to training the next generation of scientists. I teach and mentor master's and PhD students at Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University, integrating neuroscience, molecular physiology and metabolism into graduate education.