Neurobiology of Nutrition Laboratory

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Research Interests

Dr. Shin's lab is interested in how the brain controls metabolism and nutrient partitioning as well as the long-term regulation of body weight and appetite. The main research project aims to understand the role of insulin action in the brain in regulating branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism and how this central control can contribute to glucose homeostasis by using molecular, pharmacological, transgenic, surgical, and integrative physiological approaches.

Other ongoing research projects:

• Association between Type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease
• Effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery on appetite, hedonics, and reward control and the underlying mechanisms
• Understanding how nicotine affects blood glucose

Current Funding

• NIH R21 AG069140-01
  • BCAAs as a novel biomarker and treatment for Alzheimer's disease, Sep 2020 – Aug 2022
• Diabetes Action Foundation
  • Understanding BCAA regulation – a step toward deciphering diabetes, Jan 2021 – Dec 2021
• National Science Foundation (NSF) National I-Corps
  • Novel diagnostic tool and compound repurposing for early detection and alleviation of Alzheimer's disease, 2019 – 2021
• Scientific & Technological Research Council of Turkey
  • The effects of central and systemic irisin on glucose homeostasis in diet-induced obese mice, Nov 2020 – Oct 2022
• Undergraduate Research Experience Grant, College of Human Sciences, TTU
  • Role of BCAAs as a biomarker of Alzheimer's disease and their potential contribution to neuronal injury, 2020 – 2021