Julio E. Ayala

Julio E. Ayala, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. His research focuses on gut-brain interactions regulating energy balance, particularly the role of Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its receptor (GLP-1R) in feeding behavior. The Ayala lab employs transgenic mouse models, pharmacological interventions, and advanced metabolic phenotyping to dissect central nervous system mechanisms. They aim to leverage Vanderbilt’s imaging, circuit mapping, and electrophysiology resources to advance understanding of GLP-1 pathways. Additionally, the lab explores therapeutic strategies for obesity and diabetes by optimizing GLP-1R agonists.

Key research areas include neuroendocrinology, metabolic disorder therapeutics, and the development of preclinical models to study gut-brain signaling. The lab’s interdisciplinary approach integrates biochemical, pharmacological, and behavioral methodologies to address translational challenges in metabolic disease research.