overview

• The Ellis Lab research program uses biochemical, metabolic flux, and genetically manipulated mouse model approaches to discover regulatory nodes in fatty acid channeling and to understand how altering fatty acid metabolism influences susceptibility to fatty acid-related cell stress, insulin sensitivity, neurodegeneration, and muscle function. We have two major research focuses in the lab:
  
  Role of fatty acid oxidation in muscle function and health. We have revealed a critical role of fatty acid oxidation in cardiac remodeling, and in muscle's influence on whole body metabolism, obesity, and insulin resistance. Using several novel mouse models we will continue to dissect these relationships and mechanisms.
  Fatty acid metabolism in the central nervous system. We have recently discovered that acyl-CoA synthetase 6 (Acsl6) is a critical enzyme required for enriching the brain, central nervous system, and testes with the protective omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid. Loss of Acsl6 results in neuroinflammation and motor deficits demonstrating an important role for fatty acid metabolism in central nervous system health and whole-body physiology.
  
  Our team of undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers are paving the path as the next generation of scientists.