David Edward Lee

My research program investigates the metabolic drivers which support muscle function. I am particularly interested in the role of the syncytial cells of the muscle which support the tissue’s ability to maintain contractile strength. In clinical situations of muscle weakness (i.e., sarcopenia), altered function in mesenchymal cell populations contribute to loss of force. Muscle interstitial cells must respond well to acute stressors (i.e., exercise, tear, trauma) to return the muscles to full function and this requires coordination of cell metabolism. Therefore, my research program utilizes state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based metabolomics tools to understand how metabolism of these cells can be leveraged to enhance physical resilience.