Welcome to the Valencia Laboratory

We are dedicated to understanding the relationship between mitochondria and nutritional stressors in the context of metabolic disease. Within cells, small organelles known as mitochondria have a keen ability to sense and respond to energetic demand and substrate availability. In addition to energy production, mitochondria regulate various cellular processes necessary to maintain overall function and health. Mitochondrial metabolism can adapt or maladapt in response to an obesogenic environment, so we seek to identify these adaptations to better understand how mitochondria mediate the risk of developing disease.

Culture:

We foster a culture of diversity, inclusion, and mutual support, recognizing that a wide range of perspectives and backgrounds strengthens our scientific community. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their unique skills and ideas. Together, we work towards advancing knowledge while nurturing a supportive and inclusive community where we can all thrive.

Research:

Weight loss is the leading recommendation to reduce cardiometabolic risk in people with obesity. Our goal is to understand how mitochondria adapt to weight loss and how these adaptations mediate energy balance, insulin sensitivity, and lipid regulation. We work at the interface of bench and human research to 1) identify the link between mitochondrial function and cardiometabolic risk in humans and 2) investigate mechanisms and treatments using controlled animal and cell culture studies.