Nicolas Berbari
Associate Professor (7/1/20)Department of Biology
Stark Neurosciences Institute (Associate Investigator)
Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, IUSM (Member)
ude[dot]iupui[at]irabrebn
Cilia and Obesity
Our research focuses on understanding how small cellular appendages called cilia are important for feeding behavior. Disruption of these cell 'antenna' leads to increased feeding and obesity in genetic disorders called ciliopathies. We are interested in understanding how these cilia on neurons in feeding centers of the brain receive or transmit signals important for changing appetite and satiety. Obesity is a world wide growing health problem. Drug companies have become interested in understanding if cilia are potential targets for therapies that may positively modulate feeding.