Director: Barbara A. Gower, PhD
Department/Center Association: GCRC
Core Services
The Metabolism Core Laboratory is comprised of the Hormone/Substrate Laboratory and the Mass Spectrometer Laboratory. The Core is directed by Barbara A. Gower, PhD, and staffed by four full-time technicians for analysis of hormones, substrates, and stable isotopes. The Metabolism Core works closely with the GCRC to ensure that it is responsive to the needs of GCRC investigators. The Director takes an active role in making potential GCRC investigators aware of Core services and in assisting new investigators in preparing research protocols. The specific aims of the Metabolism Core are:
Specific Aim 1: To offer analysis of glucose and lipids; insulin and several other hormones; cytokines and markers of inflammation using multiplex technology; and stable isotopes of oxygen, hydrogen, and glucose by GC/MS.
Specific Aim 2: To provide analysis of insulin sensitivity by minimal modeling of data from intravenous glucose tolerance testing.
Specific Aim 3: To assist investigators in conceptualizing and evaluating the feasibility of analyses required for specific protocols as well as completing the portions of the GCRC application packet relevant to the use of the Core.
By offering these analyses in a central location, the Core can provide cost-effective, high-quality analyses for research studies. The Core conducts a wide variety of assays on a routine basis. Quality control criteria are strictly adhered to by the staff, and monitored by the Director, ensuring that GCRC investigators receive consistent, reliable results.
Contact Information
Director: Barbara A. Gower, PhD
Email: bgower@uab.edu
Phone: 205-934-4087
Approved by: Barbara A. Gower, PhD, Director
Date: March 4, 2008
Click here to return to the SOM
Research Web Site's home page.