The Obesity and Metabolic Outcomes Research Program has a research focus motivated by emerging studies suggesting that the environment affects development of obesity and metabolic diseases. Investigators are studying air pollution and chemical exposure effects on obesity development, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, glucose intolerance, beta-cell function, and lipid metabolism.

Mechanistic studies are investigating early life susceptibility and systemic and adipose tissue inflammation and adipokines. Collaborations have historically contributed to the development of an NIEHS/EPA-supported Children’s Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Center focused on air pollution, obesity and metabolic diseases (Southern California Children’s Environmental Health Center) and an NIEHS/NIMHD/EPA-supported Environmental Health Disparities Center (Maternal and Developmental Exposures from Environmental and Social Stressors).

Recent Highlights

•  Evidence from neonates, children, adults, and animal models indicates that near-roadway air pollution, PM2.5 and NO2 increase adiposity and reduce insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function, suggestive of type 2 diabetes.

• Groundbreaking studies showed effects of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), other persistent organic pollutants, phthalates and metals on obesity, type 2 diabetes, and NAFLD. Ongoing projects are measuring the impact of these mixtures on longitudinal changes in glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and beta-cell function in various cohorts.