Falk College strives to achieve excellence in education not only through good teaching but also through participation in active research. Our students benefit by learning from researchers who are working at the cutting-edge of knowledge, within well-equipped laboratories, and in projects that are both domestic and abroad. We encourage both undergraduates and graduate engagement to achieve not only a rewarding educational experience but also enhanced career opportunities upon graduation. Learn more about the different types of research awards.
2021-2022 SU CUSE GrantMaternal Fish Oil Supplementation on Skeletal Muscle and Pancreas Function of Offspring
Obesity is a growing epidemic afflicting more than 42% of adults and 20% of the children and adolescents in the United States. Even more critical is that 60% of women are either obese or overweight at the time of conception]. Specifically, maternal programming through dietary intervention plays a key role in the prevention of childhood obesity and associated co-morbidities. Preventing obesity is vital as people suffering from obesity have three times higher risk of developing diabesity (obesity dependent T2D). Bioactives such as fish oil (FO) offer health benefits in terms of lowering risk of T2D and heart diseases.
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2021-2022 Falk Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Seed Grant AwardInvestigating the Role of Fish Oil in Preventing Paternal Obesity, and Improving Metabolic Health of the Offspring
Impact of early-life nutrition on offspring health had traditionally focused on maternal (mostly intrauterine) obesity leaving paternal obesity out of the picture. Currently in the United States, about 2 in 3 males of reproductive age are either overweight or suffer from obesity. Moreover, obesity in fathers appears to initiate changes in sperm genetics, including alterations in gene regulators called miRNAs. Fish oil (FO) derived from fatty fish is beneficial in regulating body weight and lowering inflammation. FO reduces adverse effects of maternal obesity and improves offspring health.
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