Muscle Rhythms in Metabolic Health
Hall E-2
Level 1, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Q&A with Brendan M. Gabriel, PhD
Research Fellow (PI),
University of Aberdeen
What is your presentation about?
Circadian physiology consists of highly conserved biological processes over ∼24-hour cycles, which are influenced by external cues (Zeitgebers – ‘time-keepers’). Skeletal muscle has diurnal variations of a large magnitude, owing in part to the strong nature of physical activity throughout the day and other external Zeitgebers. However, our evidence suggests these diurnal variations are disrupted in the skeletal muscle of people with type 2 diabetes.
What makes this topic important in 2022?
The dysregulation of circadian metabolism in skeletal muscle of people with type 2 diabetes underscores the need to take circadian biology into account and consider approaches in chronomedicine when prescribing pharmacological therapy, particularly treatments that affect mitochondrial function. Our findings provide mechanistic insight into type 2 diabetes pathophysiology and have clinical implications into the link between insulin sensitivity and environmental triggers that are associated with altered metabolism, including impaired sleeping patterns, social jet lag, or shift-work.
How did you become involved with this area of diabetes research or care?
I started working in the area of circadian rhythms within the aetiology of type 2 diabetes at the Karolinska Institute, and I have now begun to lead research projects in this area at the University of Aberdeen. The ideas and data in these projects were initiated by my work in the lab of Prof. Juleen Zierath, Prof. Harriet Wallberg-Henriksson, and Prof. Anna Krook and was driven by funding from the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
What are you most looking forward to at the 82nd Scientific Sessions?
Being able to see the latest huge strides that are being made in patient care and basic science within the diabetes research field. Also, being able to discuss the science with colleagues in a great city!
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