Research
Division of Applied Physiology
CHRONOBIOLOGY LABORATORY
The Chronobiology Laboratory is directed by Shawn Youngstedt, Ph.D. Our laboratory focuses on sleep, circadian rhythms, and psychological benefits of exercise and bright light exposure. Our research has been supported by NIH, ACSM, USC, the Litebook Company and the Gatorade Sports Science Institute.
CLINICAL EXERCISE RESEARCH CENTER
The laboratory is equipped for state-of-the-art measurement of metabolic and cardiorespiratory responses and adaptations to exercise in human subjects. A fully automated system for measurement of metabolism is included. Also, this laboratory includes a hydrostatic weighing system for measurement of body composition that is equipped for on-line data reduction. This facility is also now equipped with the state-of-the-art DEXA machine for body composition and bone mineral analysis. Full phlebotomy capability and a TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) apparatus are also available. The facility is the site for laboratory instruction in exercise physiology and for the conduction of exercise physiology graduate student research.
INTEGRATIVE MUSCLE BIOLOGY LABORATORY
The Integrative Muscle Biology Laboratory is directed by Dr. James Carson. Investigations examine cellular and molecular mechanisms that influence muscle plasticity in skeletal and cardiac muscle. Specific attention is given to the interaction of endocrine signaling and muscle mass regulation through extracellular matrix remodeling and inflammation. Scientific models examine alterations in muscle activity due to disuse, increased loading and regeneration from injury. The regulation of these processes in conditions of underlying disease (cancer cachexia, diabetes) or aging is also examined.
Division of Health Aspects of Physical Activity
BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE LABORATORY
The Behavioral Science Laboratory is directed by Sara Wilcox, PhD. The laboratory studies factors that influence physical activity as well as interventions to promote physical activity and healthy eating in individuals and in communities. Current projects focus on health promotion with older adults, women, and African American churches.
CHILDREN'S PHYSICAL ACTIVITY RESEARCH GROUP
The Children’s Physical Activity Research Group (CPARG) is an interdisciplinary team of faculty, staff, and graduate students who are dedicated to expanding the body of knowledge on physical activity and its promotion in children and adolescents. An overarching aim of CPARG is to enhance the health of young people by generating the knowledge needed to design and implement effective public health policies.
HUMAN METABOLISM LABORATORY
The Human Metabolism Laboratory is directed by Dr. Xuewen Wang. The group conducts observational and interventional studies of obesity, body composition, energy expenditure, and insulin sensitivity, and uses stable isotope tracers to study metabolism in vivo. Current projects focus on the effects of exercise intervention in women and older adults.
PREVENTION RESEARCH CENTER
Sara Wilcox, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Exercise Science and Director of the CDC-funded Prevention Research Center (PRC), whose theme is Promoting Health Through Physical Activity. The PRC is housed in the Arnold School of Public Health. Dr. Wilcox, along with other faculty in the USC PRC, conducts research exploring social, environmental, and policy approaches to promoting physical activity.
Division of Motor Control and Physical Therapy
PHYSICAL THERAPY REHABILITATION LABORATORY
The Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Laboratory is directed by Dr. Bruce McClenaghan, PED, PT. Faculty in this laboratory also includes Dr. Stacy Fritz, PhD, PT. Their work has been recognized by the National Institutes of Health and the South Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Research Fund and have published their findings in journals such as Stroke, Physical Therapy, Gait and Posture, and Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Individuals have traveled, both nationally and internationally, to participate in the different research studies offered in the Rehabilitation Lab.
