Energy metabolism related to aging, obesity, and food intake. My research focuses on energy metabolism as it relates to aging and obesity. I currently have two studies underway. One study is investigating the effect of a 40% reduction in energy intake on mitochondrial proton leak and reactive oxygen species production. The goal of this project is to determine the role proton leak may play in the retardation of aging with energy restriction. Mitochondrial proton leak and hydrogen peroxide production are measured in rats following short- and long-term energy restriction. Dietary fat manipulations are used to mimic changes in mitochondrial membrane composition observed with energy restriction. Another study uses microarray technology to investigate gene expression differences in dogs with either a high or low resting energy expenditure or consuming either a high or low fat diet. The goal of this project is to identify genes that are responsible for regulating energy expenditure or determining energetic response to high fat feeding.
Visit Dr. Ramsey's website: http://faculty.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/faculty/jjramsey/