Section Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition

Our section studies the molecular underpinnings of health and disease with a focus on inborn and acquired metabolic diseases. The ability to regulate energy metabolism is essential for life. Nutrient sensors play a pivotal role in regulating energy metabolism: metabolic disturbances initiate chronic diseases and contribute to their complications. Development of these systems in early life is affected by nutrition and linked to the risk of metabolic disease later in life. We strive to gain insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying deregulated metabolism in order to develop new strategies to prevent or treat metabolic diseases. We use stable isotope technologies in humans and mouse models as well as cell systems for in-depth analysis of systemic physiology.

Principal investigators:

• Prof. E.M. (Eline) van der Beek – Early life nutrition/metabolic programming/glucose-insulin metabolism/obesity
• Dr. J.F. (Jan Freark) de Boer – Stable isotope technologies
• Prof. J.W. (Hans) Jonker – Role nuclear hormone receptors in metabolism
• Dr. J. K. (Janine) Kruit – Glucose-insulin metabolism
• Prof. F. (Folkert) Kuipers – Bile acid and cholesterol metabolism
• Dr. M.H. (Maaike) Oosterveer – (Patho) physiology of cellular nutrient sensing
• Prof. H.J. (HenkJan) Verkade – Programming of disease in early life