Karyn Esser,
Professor And Chair
About Karyn Esser
My lab has pioneered research on the role of circadian rhythms and the molecular clock mechanism in skeletal muscle homeostasis and health. Using genetic mouse models, we found that mutations of two different molecular clock genes, Clock and Bmal1, dramatically disrupt skeletal muscle structure and function. The lab is also pursuing the role of physical activity/exercise as a time cue for skeletal muscle and other tissues. We have also shown that time of exercise can significantly alter the clock mechanism in skeletal muscle independent of lighting and the central clock in the brain. Our research goals are to define the transcriptional networks and downstream mechanisms that link the molecular clock with proper skeletal muscle function and phenotype. Additionally we are working in mouse and human models to determine the potential for time of day lifestyle interventions as a therapeutic approach to enhance molecular clock function and attenuate conditions of muscle weakness and wasting seen with aging and chronic diseases.
Teaching Profile
Research Profile
0000-0002-5791-1441
Publications
Grants
Education
Contact Details
- Business:
- (352) 273-5728
- Business:
- kaesser@ufl.edu
- Business Mailing:
-
M544
PO BOX 100274
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGY AND AGING
GAINESVILLE FL 326100274 - Business Street:
-
PHYSIOLOGY AND AGING
M-544
GAINESVILLE FL 326100274