magdalene-ameka@uiowa.edu
Mentor: Matthew Potthoff, Ph.D.
Lab Room: 3322 PBDB
Lab Phone: 319-335-7660

The role of hepatokines in metabolic homeostasis

My main research focus is FGF21 and other liver derived endocrine factors that maintain metabolic homeostasis. FGF21 in a hepatokine that lacks the putative heparin binding domain and thus can signal to multiple tissues for pleiotropic effects, effects that are just now being appreciated. The mechanisms of FGF21’s action are unknown; and there remains a lot of speculation in the field as to the source of FGF21 and the main tissue of action. We are particularly interested in understanding the mechanisms for FGF21’s peripheral roles in profound insulin sensitization and increased energy expenditure. We are also studying FGF21 signaling in obesity. Paradoxically, FGF21 is increased during diet induced obesity. We also seek to define new roles for FGF21 in the heart and vasculature.

Markan KR, Naber MC, Ameka MK, Anderegg MD, Mangelsdorf DJ, Kliewer SA, Mohammadi M, Potthoff MJ. Circulating FGF21 is Liver Derived and Enhances Glucose Uptake During Refeeding and Overfeeding. Diabetes. 2014 Jul 9. pii: DB_140595. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 25008183.