Seeley Lab Research
Discover Our Research
Learn more about the Seeley Lab’s current work and impact.
The research in our lab is primarily centered on understanding how the brain and peripheral systems interact to regulate body weight, energy balance, and metabolism. A major focus is the gut-brain axis, where signals from the gastrointestinal tract, such as hormones like GLP-1 and leptin, play crucial roles in controlling food intake and glucose metabolism. Our research spans from basic neuroscience to translational studies, aiming to understand how these signaling pathways can be manipulated for therapeutic purposes.
Another key area of research is the study of bariatric surgery, such as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, and its effects on metabolic health. The lab investigates how these surgical procedures alter gut hormones and neural circuits to improve weight loss and glycemic control. By identifying the molecular targets involved in these processes, such as the FXR receptor, our team aims to develop non-surgical interventions that can replicate the benefits of bariatric surgery. This research has broad implications for developing new, more effective treatments for obesity and metabolic diseases.
Obesity Treatment
Our studies have shown how bariatric surgeries like vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) influence hormones that regulate food intake and metabolism. This led to the identification of molecular pathways, such as the FXR receptor, which are altered by VSG and can be targeted for new obesity treatments.
Diabetes Management
Our work on the role of gut-brain signaling and hormones like GLP-1 has directly influenced treatments for diabetes, particularly through the development of GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs, which are used to treat both obesity and type 2 diabetes, help control blood glucose levels while also reducing body weight.
Energy Balance & Appetite Regulation
By exploring the hypothalamic regulation of energy balance through pathways like mTOR and PPAR-γ, our research has contributed to better understanding how the brain influences hunger and satiety. This knowledge underpins therapeutic approaches that modulate these pathways to treat obesity.
Neuroscience of Metabolism
Our research on how the brain responds to metabolic signals, such as insulin and leptin, has clarified why certain individuals gain weight more easily and why some obesity treatments work better for certain patients. This has been pivotal in personalized medicine approaches to metabolic disorders.
The Seeley Lab has contributed to several significant scientific advances in understanding and treating obesity and metabolic disorders. One of the most impactful breakthroughs has been the identification of molecular targets, such as the FXR receptor, that mediate the effects of bariatric surgery. This discovery has opened the door for developing non-invasive treatments that mimic the metabolic benefits of surgeries like vertical sleeve gastrectomy, potentially providing safer and more accessible options for weight loss and diabetes management.
Additionally, the lab’s work on gut-brain signaling pathways, particularly with hormones like GLP-1, has informed the development of GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are now widely used in clinical treatments for type 2 diabetes and obesity. By elucidating the central role of the brain in regulating energy balance, our lab has paved the way for novel therapies that target these neural circuits, offering more precise interventions for patients with metabolic disorders.
Support Our Work
We greatly appreciate your support in further advancing our research. Please contact the Office of Development with any questions.
Explore Clinical Trials
The University of Michigan offers a wide range of clinical trials through the Michigan Institute for Clinical & Health Research (MICHR) in which volunteers can participate.
