The Integrative Metabolism & Disease Prevention (IMDP) Research Group is part of the Applied Physiology Laboratory and is led by Dr. Sarah Deemer. The IMDP Research Group integrates clinical research with basic science to better understand and promote metabolic health in adults. Dr. Deemer’s overarching research goals are to investigate the mechanisms driving the development of low-grade chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g., obesity, insulin resistance), with a primary focus on the role of adipose tissue and skeletal muscle in metabolic health. The lab is also dedicated to uncovering the biological factors and mechanisms behind the increased prevalence of obesity and metabolic diseases in racial and ethnic minority populations, aiming to reduce health disparities and improve minority health outcomes. Additionally, our group emphasizes women’s health research, focusing on the intersection of metabolic disease with conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

An important aspect of our work is investigating how targeted nutrition and exercise interventions can mitigate the effects of chronic inflammatory diseases. Current research is exploring the anti-inflammatory potential of omega-3 fatty acids and their role in promoting the production of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) to reduce inflammation and improve metabolic health in individuals with obesity. Overall, our group aims to develop evidence-based approaches that enhance health outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals managing chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders.

Our lab utilizes advanced clinical methodologies and is equipped to perform overnight metabolic assessments, providing invaluable insights into disease prevention and metabolic adaptation. Current capabilities include:

• Body Composition Testing (DXA and BIA)
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTT)
• Intravenous Glucose Tolerance Tests (IVGTT)
• Euglycemic Hyperinsulinemic Clamp
• Hyperglycemic Clamp
• Resting Metabolic Rate & Metabolic Flexibility
• Exercise Testing
• Adipose and Skeletal Muscle Biopsies