The Good Lab

The Good Lab investigates body weight control genetics, emphasizing the Nhlh2 transcription factor and its implications in human obesity, sedentary behavior, infertility, and Prader-Willi Syndrome.

The Good Lab seeks to understand the genetics of body weight control, with a 20+-year focus on the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Nhlh2. Using the Nhlh2 knockout mouse, cell lines, in vitro studies, and in silico analysis we have uncovered molecular mechanisms implicated in human obesity, sedentary behavior (inactivity), infertility, and the human genetic condition, Prader-Willi Syndrome.

In related work, Dr. Good oversees research on a nutraceutical product, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) which can reverse weight gain in genetically obese mouse models. Her newly formed company is formulating functional food products that incorporate CLA, and plan to launch these products by 2024. In addition, Dr. Good studies the role of body weight and exercise levels on academic success in college studies, as well as whether acute bouts of exercise can improve cognitive function.

Finally, Dr. Good oversees an NIH-funded undergraduate research program, the Translational Obesity Undergraduate Research Scholars, or TOUR Scholars program, and investigates the role of undergraduate research opportunities in increasing critical thinking and academic success in undergraduates.

Laboratory Equipment

• Boekel Scientific Slide Hybridization Oven 
• Gel Dryer 35 x 45 cm 
• HybEZ II System (ACD Biosciences)
• VWR Shaker Incubator

Principal Investigator