The Metabolism Institute was created in response to urgent and chronic health care needs of people with diabetes and obesity. The problems posed by these conditions are especially evident at The Mount Sinai Hospital, where approximately one-third of patients are diagnosed with diabetes. This chronic condition is also reaching epidemic proportions in our neighboring communities of East and Central Harlem and is on the rise worldwide. Underlying this epidemic is a complex relationship among metabolism, lifestyle, and genetics. Never before has the need been as urgent and the opportunity as great for breakthroughs in research and treatment.

Under the direction of Dr. Derek LeRoith the Metabolism Institute plans to target:

• Genetic targets predisposing to obesity and diabetes
• Environmental effects
• Central (brain) mechanisms: Regulation of appetite, behavior, hypo- and hyperglycemia
• Beta-cell function
• Peripheral tissues and effects on glucose metabolism (muscle, liver, etc.)
• Drug development and trials
• Clinical research

In order to accomplish our mission, we plan to bring together clinicians and basic scientists:

• Epidemiologists
• Molecular biologists
• Clinical researchers / MDs
• Outreach team to the local community