The Arkansas Integrative Metabolic Research Center (AIMRC) will host Joanna Fiddler, assistant professor of human nutrition, at 12:55 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, in Bell Engineering 2267. In her talk, she will discuss the influence of micronutrients on mitochondrial integrity, function, and health.

Abstract: The Fiddler Laboratory studies nutrient-gene interactions, and the underlying molecular mechanisms that influence mitochondria health and disease. B-vitamins and iron play significant roles in cellular and mitochondrial function, yet micronutrient deficiencies are a leading cause of malnutrition that leads to impaired growth and development, work capacity, and healthy aging. My lab currently focuses on the role of micronutrients in maintaining mitochondrial DNA integrity, function, and health.

Biography: Joanna Fiddler is an assistant professor of human nutrition with a joint appointment in the School of Human Environmental Sciences and the Department of Food Science. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Nutritional Sciences and Health & Human Performance (exercise physiology concentration) before pursuing a Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences investigating iron metabolism at Oklahoma State University. She went on to study the role of B vitamin-gene interactions in mitochondrial de novo thymidylate biosynthesis and the effect of iron depletion on metabolic pathways that influence work capacity during her postdoctoral training at Cornell University in the labs of Martha Field and professor Jere Haas. She previously held an assistant professor position at Clemson University from January 2023 to July 2024 before joining the University of Arkansas. Her work focuses on micronutrient nutrition and metabolism and studying their integration in health and disease.

This event is supported by NIGMS of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number P20GM139768. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Pizza and beverages will be served. Please contact Kimberley Fuller, fullerk@uark.edu, for more information.

For those unable to attend in person, this seminar will also be available via Zoom.