Cheng Shi, Ph.D., received a five-year, $1,862,500 award through the R35 “Maximizing Investigators’ Research” program for his project, “Investigating the role of lipid metabolism in germline-soma interactions and stress responses.” His research will explore how high levels of reproductive activity affect the health and lifespan of the rest of the body.
The research will focus on how the reproductive system communicates with the rest of the body, particularly through lipid metabolism, or how the body uses and stores fats. Dr. Shi hopes to fill an important gap in scientists’ understanding of how high reproductive activity affects overall health and whether changes in lipid metabolism could help the body meet increased reproductive demands while maintaining its health over time.
“This five-year grant gives us an incredible opportunity to investigate an area of biology that is still largely unexplored,” Dr. Shi said. “With the research facilities, students and collaborative environment at LSU New Orleans, we can study these connections at a much deeper level. Ultimately, we hope this work provides new insight into how reproductive health, metabolism and healthy aging are connected.”
Dr. Shi’s work reflects LSU New Orleans’ commitment to advancing research that addresses fundamental questions about health and aging. The grant will also create opportunities for students to participate in scientific research and gain hands-on experience while contributing to discoveries that could have an impact far beyond the laboratory.
