Kim Rewitz

Kim Rewitz is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Cell and Neurobiology. His research focuses on steroid hormone and neuropeptide signaling with critical functions in development, reproduction, metabolism, behavior and disease processes.

His research interests include:

• Steroid hormone signaling in developmental timing and maturation
• Neuropeptide regulation of feeding behavior and metabolism
• Insulin/IGF signaling in growth regulation
• Conserved mechanisms from insects to humans
• Metabolic disorders including obesity and diabetes
• Neuroendocrine control of developmental transitions

Rewitz's research primarily utilizes Drosophila (fruit fly) as a model system, leveraging its unparalleled genetic and molecular tools along with the conservation of approximately 75% of human disease-related genes. His work examines how steroid signaling induces the switch from juvenile growth to sexual maturation, a tightly controlled process requiring assessment of nutrient levels and growth status. His recent publications demonstrate strong focus on gut hormones, metabolic regulation, tissue crosstalk, and molecular mechanisms underlying developmental timing and feeding behavior, with articles appearing in Nature Metabolism, Nature Communications, and other high-impact journals.

His scientific contributions have garnered significant attention across academic and public spheres, with mentions in news outlets and extensive discussion on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky, and Facebook.

Rewitz leads a research group that employs molecular genetic approaches combined with genome-wide RNAi, transcriptomic and proteomic strategies to uncover cellular mechanisms and neuroendocrine circuits. His work has direct implications for understanding metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes, as well as timing of puberty in humans, bridging fundamental biological processes with human health applications.