HI-MAG Hosts Inaugural Energy Expenditure Symposium

The event centered on HI-MAG's new metabolic chamber, a cutting-edge addition to the institute’s research capabilities. These specialized chambers are designed to measure the energy expenditure and metabolism of participants in clinical studies. They enable precise determination of an individual’s metabolic rate, providing invaluable data for research into human metabolism and related health conditions. Several project-related talks were delivered by HI-MAG's group leaders, highlighting ongoing studies and future research opportunities. 

A major highlight of the symposium was the participation of leading international experts in metabolic chamber research. Keynote presentations were given by: 

• Jonathan Krakoff, MD, from the National Institutes of Health, NIDDK, Phoenix Branch, Phoenix, AZ, USA. 
• Kong Y. Chen, PhD, from the National Institutes of Health, NIDDK, Bethesda, MD, USA.
• Paolo Piaggi, PhD, from the Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Italy. 

The symposium aimed to foster a collaborative space for scientific exchange and to receive professional advice from leading experts in the field of whole-room indirect calorimeters research for upcoming clinical studies. Discussions covered early results from ongoing studies, new study proposals, and opportunities for collaboration. In addition to the scientific program, the event also featured an open discussion segment designed to engage the public and create a platform for direct interaction with leading experts in the field.  

“It was a great honor to engage in discussions with world-renowned scientists from the NIH, who have shaped and significantly advanced the field of Whole Room Indirect Calorimetry over the past decades through groundbreaking work. The inspiring exchange on the diverse possibilities within metabolic chambers not only provided valuable insights but also laid the foundation for potential future collaborations to drive further progress in this fascinating area of research,“ said Prof. Dr. Matthias Blüher. 

The event was widely regarded as a success and is an important step towards establishing HI-MAG within the whole-room indirect calorimeters research community. The symposium is expected to become a regular feature of HI-MAG’s scientific agenda.