Our research focuses on understanding the impact of exercise training, combined with dietary strategies on physiology and metabolic changes across a range of populations.

Specific Research interests/topics: 
Our primary research interests revolve around comprehending the effects of exercise training and dietary strategies on muscle mass, adipose distribution, metabolism, and performance across diverse populations. We employs a multifaceted approach by combining applied studies with mechanistic investigations into metabolism and physiological adaptations. Through his work, we aim to unravel the distinctive and advantageous effects of physical activity on human health and well-being.

Research methods: 
We employ state-of-the-art technologies and cutting-edge methodologies, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), spectroscopy (MRS), and electrography (MRE), enabling us to precisely evaluate adipose tissue distribution and muscle and internal organ mass. We are routinely using doubly labeled water to measure energy expenditure in real-life scenarios, providing a comprehensive understanding of metabolic processes. Additionally, our utilization of labeled amino acids in conjunction with muscle biopsies empowers us to accurately determine protein synthesis.
Furthermore, our laboratory is well-equipped to analyze diverse biological samples, allowing us to assess various aspects of health. We are proficient in evaluating changes in immune system functionality, cardiometabolic markers, blood counts, and utilizing multiplex ELISA techniques to quantify inflammation and cytokine concentrations. Our capabilities also extend to the assessment of muscle damage markers, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of physiological responses.

Main projects in the lab include:
1. Metabolic adaptation following moderate intensity exercise training
2. Role of time restricted feeding and dietary protein intake distribution on muscle protein synthesis, strength and body composition
3. Exercise and microbiota contribute to endocrine control of muscle and fat mass after bariatric surgery
4. Role of physical activity level in the classification of healthy metabolically obese
5. Stimulus to accelerate recovery among Elite athletes
6. An exercise-induced metabolic shield in distant organs blocks cancer progression and metastatic dissemination

Lab Facilities and capabilities:
The Health and Exercise Science Lab at TAU possesses a wide array of capabilities for assessing both fundamental and advanced metabolic and physiological parameters, enabling comprehensive research and analysis in the field. These capabilities encompass:

1. Energy Expenditure: Our lab can accurately measure energy expenditure both at rest and during exercise, shedding light on the body’s energy utilization under different conditions.
2. Lactate Threshold: We have the tools to determine the lactate threshold, a critical indicator of endurance performance and aerobic capacity.
3. Ventilatory Threshold: Our capabilities extend to identifying the ventilatory threshold, a valuable marker in assessing exercise intensity and metabolic responses.
4. Blood Markers: We are proficient in analyzing various blood markers, including those related to immune function, endocrine regulation, blood cell counts, muscle damage, and inflammation. This provides insights into the body’s physiological responses and overall health.
5. Body Composition: Our lab is equipped to accurately measure body composition, providing valuable data on the distribution of muscle mass and body fat.
6. Body Fat Distribution: We have the tools to assess body fat distribution, which plays a significant role in health outcomes and disease risk.
7. Muscle Mass and Damage: Our capabilities include the evaluation of muscle mass and damage, contributing to a deeper understanding of muscle function and recovery processes.
8. Brain Function: We also possess the resources to study brain function in relation to exercise and physiological responses, offering insights into the complex interplay between physical activity and cognitive processes.

These capabilities collectively enable our laboratory to conduct comprehensive research and contribute to advancing our understanding of health, exercise, and human performance.

Potential industries:
1. Pharma
2. Biotech
3. Agtech

For more information:

Email: https://www.gepnerlab.com/

Website: gepner@tauex.tau.ac.il