In Print

Graham Ramsay

Energy Equation Proposes Patterns of Weight Gain and Loss
HMS researchers (from left) Rakesh Jain, Joshua Tam, and Dai Fukumura have devised a mathematical model of energy balance and body weight that suggests a possible explanation for intractable obesity. The model, based on results from experiments with mice, predicts that leptin resistance causes mice to have multiple stable body weights. Switching from a higher weight to a lower weight involves more than simply cutting calories. The model indicates that dieting may cause internal control systems to kick in with a magnetlike hold that pulls body weight back up. This hypothesis opens the door to new research that may help validate the predictions and determine if similar equations apply to humans.

Upcoming

Faculty Affairs

The New HMS/HSDM CV: Recognizing the Diversity of Faculty Achievements

Friday, Jan. 30
12–1 p.m.

Speaker:
• Maureen Connelly

Student Scene

Graham Ramsay

“Why Are We Walking So Fast?”
When confronted by questions about why she works at a free clinic in South Los Angeles—and at such a frenzied pace—Ellen Rothman suggests that the patient–doctor interaction in that setting is a deep reward.

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A multimedia site featuring Harvard Medical research.