Reina Villareal

Reina Villareal, M.D., is a Professor at Baylor College of Medicine and a Staff Physician at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. She serves as Core Faculty at the Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases (CTRID), with appointments in the Department of Medicine-Endocrinology. Her work bridges endocrinology, genetics, and bone metabolism.

Education:

• MD from Cebu Institute of Medicine, Philippines
• Residency at Texas Tech University, Amarillo, TX
• Fellowship at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO

Research Interests: Dr. Villareal focuses on:

• Genetic interactions in gonadal hormones and bone metabolism
• Effects of aromatase inhibitors on weight loss in hypogonadal men
• Bone quality in type 2 diabetes and hypogonadism
• Role of CYP450 enzyme genes in obesity and bone health

Her work emphasizes translational approaches to metabolic and musculoskeletal disorders.

Publications Trends: Her research spans clinical trials and molecular studies, with recurring themes in:

• Testosterone therapy and bone density
• Genetic polymorphisms (CYP19A1, FTO)
• Exercise and diet interventions in older adults
• Adipokines and metabolic regulation
• Pharmacogenomics of hormonal treatments

Grants & Memberships:

• VA Merit Review Grant #1 I01 CX001665 (2019-2025): Testosterone Therapy and Bone Quality
• NIH Grant #1R01HD093047 (2017-2023): Aromatase Inhibitors and Weight Loss
• Professional memberships: Endocrine Society, American Society for Bone and Mineral Research