Mitochondria are known as the "engines" of the cell, converting metabolites into a useable form of energy for the rest of the cell. Overloading cells with fuel due to excess caloric intake and/or inactivity compromises mitochondrial function whereas exercise training enhances mitochondrial oxidative capacity. Research in my lab is directed at deciphering the molecular mechanisms governing mitochondrial bioenergetics and function in the context of the etiology of metabolic disease as well as disease prevention/treatment.