Dr. Cheng studies the mechanisms of nutrient and hormonal signals regulating metabolism at molecular level. Specifically, his research seeks to address how autophagy (a cellular remodeling process) regulates adiposity and metabolism, and how environmental factors (e.g., diets or nutrients) regulate epigenetic pathways in metabolic health and disease. His long-term goal is to develop mechanism-based strategies for disease treatment or prevention. Dr. Cheng teaches Nutrition and Metabolism (HUN 4221), Laboratory Techniques in Molecular Nutrition (HUN 4813C), Macronutrients in Human Nutrition (HUN 6235), and Nutritional Epigenomics (HUN 4936/HUN 6936). In his teaching activities, Dr. Cheng sets high priority for building students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Dr. Cheng's lab seeks to define the molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic derangements in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Specifically, we study the regulatory network of FoxO and autophagy that mediate adipose development and expansion. We are also interested in the epigenetic regulation of metabolism and the role of environmental factors (e.g., nutrient and hormonal signaling). The long-term goal of Dr. Cheng’s research is to develop mechanism-based therapeutics for metabolic disorders.
Dr. Cheng’s lab welcomes motivated students to apply for (a) graduate assistantship positions, and (b) undergraduate research training positions.
Zhiyong Cheng, Ph.D.