Young-Hwan Jo

Young-Hwan Jo is a Professor in the Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology), Molecular Pharmacology, and Neuroscience at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. His research focuses on the neurobiology of energy metabolism, particularly the hypothalamic neural mechanisms underlying obesity and metabolic dysregulation. He employs cutting-edge techniques like optogenetics, calcium imaging, and CRISPR/Cas-9 to study neural circuits controlling energy homeostasis. Additionally, his work explores the role of vagal cholinergic innervation in hepatic metabolism and liver-brain neural circuits.

Professional interests include the interplay between hypothalamic neurons and metabolic signals (e.g., insulin, ghrelin, leptin), as well as the autonomic nervous system’s regulation of liver function. His lab investigates how vagal sensory neurons in the nodose ganglion influence whole-body energy metabolism and brain function. Recent work highlights liver-brain crosstalk and the role of cholinergic neurons in brown adipose tissue thermogenesis.

Dr. Jo’s lab utilizes advanced methodologies including viral tracing, in vivo imaging, and pharmacogenetic tools to dissect neural circuits. His research bridges molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience to address metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.