LSU researcher Jackie Stephens and an interdisciplinary team explore a fat chance at progress against this killer disease
H OW CA N W E STOP T HE DIA BETES E PIDEMI C ? 16
“In science, you do tons of things that don’t work. In nine out of 10 experiments, we don’t get an innovative result.” This simple truth expressed by biomedical researcher Jackie Stephens reveals why killer conditions such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes continue to thrive. But Stephens and visionary scientists like her remain undaunted in the search for cures. Over the course of more than 25 years, Stephens’ research has explored the links between type 2 diabetes and obesity. Now she’s assembled a lab team looking to dissect the ways that fat, known as “adipose tissue,” can help or harm those suffering from metabolic diseases like diabetes that result from abnormal chemical reactions in the body. She compares the pursuit to end these diseases to the building of a cathedral, with each researcher adding another brick to the foundation—and ultimately reaching greater and greater heights. “On a day-to-day basis it’s not that thrilling,” she said. “But I do have a few times in my life where I have found new knowledge.” Joining Stephens in the lab are senior scientist Allison Richard, research associates, postdoc fellows, PhD candidates and undergraduates from LSU. This diverse array of scientific perspectives helps surface new hypotheses and approaches to answering the core research question: How do fat cells predispose you and protect you against metabolic diseases?
