My primary interests are in neural control of ingestion and obesity. We are particularly interested in parts of the brain that control the drive to consume food, especially highly palatable foods like cookies. Many scientists believe that the drive to consume these foods overrides signals that tell us we have enough calories and contributes to obesity.
Work in my laboratory is focused on the central neural control of ingestive behavior. This applies not only to food, but to water, salt, alcohol and drugs of abuse. This are of research is central to a number of well described diseases. Inappropriate control of food intake results in obesity with sequelae such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased incidence of cancer. Imbalances in salt and water intake contribute to renal and cardiovascular disease. Alcohol and drug abuse are well documented as major problems in the United States.
My studies utilize techniques ranging from molecular biology and transgenic animals to behavioral studies in rats, mice, dogs and pigs. We also collaborate closely with faculty in the Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, Foods and Nutrition, Animal Science, Psychology and Exercise Science.
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Diet selection, Food Intake, Obesity, Motivation, Reward, Hindbrain, Behavior, Limbic system, Neuropeptide, Biogenic amines
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