Metabolism and Human Performance
Physical activity and muscular exertion are crucial for a healthy metabolism and for maintaining muscle and bone function. Prolonged inactivity, on the other hand, favours deconditioning, obesity, insulin resistance and other metabolic dysfunctions. These processes are not only important in everyday life, but also during longer stays in space. The aim of our research is to maintain and promote human health and performance in challenging environments through innovative, evidence-based measures.
The Metabolism and Human Performance department investigates the mechanisms of physical breakdown processes with the aim of recognising them at an early stage, understanding them better and developing targeted countermeasures. The focus is on the physiological effects of physical activity and muscular strain as well as their influence on muscles, bones and metabolism.
In-depth analyses of organ-specific metabolic processes, including mitochondrial function, and their systemic interactions - supplemented by genetic models - form the basis for personalised and evidence-based interventions. Non-invasive imaging methods and examinations of older people and patients make it possible to differentiate immobilisation-related changes from primarily age- or disease-related processes.
We use these findings to develop targeted training and nutrition strategies - for example to maintain the physical fitness of astronauts under space conditions or to promote health and quality of life in old age and in the case of chronic diseases. Our research follows a translational approach - from the molecular level to application in humans.
Working group
Translational metabolism research (Prof. Dr. Dominik Pesta)
- Clinical and translational aspects of energy metabolism, tissue-specific mitochondrial function, euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp test, biospecimen management
- Studies on the effect of changed gravity conditions (e.g. short-arm centrifugation) on performance and trainability
Team
Training and countermeasures (Dr. Timo Frett)
- Training studies, musculoskeletal imaging, development of training countermeasures