About Us
The Zhao lab studies secreting factors that affect metabolic health and aging. Currently, we are focusing on major adipokines (adiponectin and leptin) and novel lipid signals, generated by J18 and ABHD6 and investigating their effects on adipose tissue, liver, heart, pancreatic islets and brain. We have generated and verified more than 15 lines of TRE- and Floxed-genes to achieve tissue specific transgenic and knockout mice in an inducible manner. Together with in vitro cell culture, we aim to reveal the contribution of these secreting factors in promoting diabetes, obesity, Alzheimer's disease and aging. We are actively working with the Sam & Ann Barshop Institute and Division of Endocrinology to translate our discoveries from bench to bedside.