Vanderbilt University · PhysiologyMetabolic Drug Mechanisms Lab
Julio E Ayala · Nashville, Tennessee
Research Focus
Dr. Julio E Ayala's lab focuses on understanding how certain drugs used for treating diabetes and obesity work at the molecular level. They investigate the interactions between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists and key regulatory pathways in the brain and pancreas. Through their research, they aim to uncover new ways to enhance the effectiveness of existing medications and potentially develop new treatments for metabolic disorders.
glucagon-like peptide-1GLP-1 receptordiabetesobesitymetabolic mechanismsinsulin secretionweight lossmTORC1hypothalamus
Research Aims
3AIM 01Investigate how GLP-1R agonists regulate mTORC1 signaling in the hypothalamus.
AIM 02Examine the role of HIF in mediating the effects of GLP-1R signaling.
AIM 03Test the efficacy of different human GLP-1R variants in promoting weight loss and improving glucose tolerance.
Skills the Lab Values
molecular biology techniquesmouse modelsin vivo experimentshyperglycemic clampsreal-time energy measurementsmetabolic phenotypingcell cultureprotein phosphorylation analysistransgenic mouse technology
Output against the department
Publications107bottom 32% of dept.194th of 286
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations4.8kbottom 41% of dept.168th of 286
this lab
most citedleast cited
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