Welcome!
The Integrative Cardiometabolic Laboratory is located in the Student Recreation Center of Old Dominion University within the School of Exercise Science in the College of Health Sciences.
Our laboratory鈥檚 research focus entails investigating the impact of physical activity or inactivity on cardiometabolic health in humans. We have multiple ongoing projects in healthy young subjects, older adults, and pregnant women.
Ongoing Research
Research on mobile-based exercise apps for heart health and motivation to exercise during pregnancy
Are you interested in using a mobile-based exercise app to stay active and learn about your heart health and motivation to exercise during pregnancy? Researchers at Old Dominion University, School of Exercise Science are seeking pregnant individuals with uncomplicated pregnancies, who do not exercise, between 20-24 weeks pregnant, and aged 18-45 years to participate in a study in the Integrative Cardiometabolic Laboratory. The study involves assessing cardiovascular health and motivation to exercise during pregnancy. Compensation will be provided for your time. If you are interested in participating, please contact Taskina Akhter at takht001@odu.edu
Laboratory Techniques
- Ultrasound: Our lab is equipped with a GE ultrasound machine for measures of peripheral and cardiac blood flow. Peripheral arteries that are measured in the lab include the brachial, femoral, popliteal and carotid arteries. We use Quipu Cardiovascular Suite for analyzing our blood flow files.
- Pulse wave velocity analysis: Pulse wave velocity and pulse wave analysis can be determined.
- Continuous glucose monitoring systems
- Finapres: Using the Finapres device, we can measure baroreflex sensitivity and a number of other cardiovascular variables.
Other measurements:
- Fitness testing
- Blood sampling for biomarkers
- Oral glucose tolerance tests
- Mixed meal tolerance tests
- Body composition assessment
- National Institutes of Health, R16. Chronic Ankle Instability and Aging: Combined Effects on Physical Function, Joint Health, and Daily Activity. 1R16GM159643-01 $155,000, 2025-2029. Co-I
- American Heart Association AIREA. The influence of removal of exercise on cardiometabolic risk factors in the aging population. $154,000 2022-2024 PI- 100%
- Medtronic Plc. The impacted of reduced physical activity on glycemic control and vascular function in older adults. 2021 PI- 100%
- National Science Foundation. EAGER: Non-invasive monitoring of arterial parameters via model-based analysis of arterial pulse signals measured by a microfluidic-based tactile sensor. $199,935 2019-2020. Co-I- 30%
Find our research
Our researchers explore how activity influences our bodies and examines a broad spectrum of patient, including the pregnant, diabetic and the elderly.
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