Elizabeth Rideout

Dr. Rideout's research program uses fly and rodent models to identify metabolic genes and pathways that contribute to sex differences in metabolism and metabolic disease. She also engages in outreach work to promote the inclusion of biological sex and gender in biomedical research.

1. Sex differences in Drosophila body size

Female flies are larger than male flies. We investigate the molecular and cellular signaling pathways that help female flies achieve this larger body size. Our studies have identified an important role for the insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway in promoting female growth.

2. Sex differences in Drosophila body fat

Female flies store more fat than male flies. We investigate the hormonal and cellular mechanisms that allow female flies to store more body fat. We have identified key roles for the insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway and adipokinetic hormone signaling in regulating this sex difference in body fat.

3. Sex differences in neuronal lipid metabolism

We use flies to study how lipid droplets contribute to neuronal function and dysfunction.

4. Sex differences in beta cell insulin production

We use mice to investigate factors that regulate sex differences in beta cell insulin production and whole-body glucose homeostasis.