Evaluation of parameters concerning glucose metabolism, including insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, splancnic glucose uptake in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, obesity. Basic research as well as intervention studies (pharmacotherapy, physical activity) in the afore mentioned fields. Application of methods such as the oral glucose tolerance testing and the OG-Clamp for determining splancnic glucose uptake and to evaluate data on the basis of models, in part in close cooperation with dott. G. Pacini (ISIB-CNR, Padova, Italy).

In cooperation with the Institute of Clincial Pharmacology (Vienna, Austria) we have the opportunity to measure the blood flow in a non-invasive manner.

We also cooperate with the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Medical University of Vienna/Austria in order to determine body composition (CT, NMR, DEXA). For data analysis we collaborate with the Obesity Research Centers St. Luke's Hospital, University Hospital Columbia University.

Circulating hormones such as amylin, leptin, ghrelin and adiponectin are measured in cooperation with the Laboratory of the Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, whereas gene expression studies are being performed at the Dept. of Cardiology (Vienna, Austria).

One major focus in addition is the evaluation of charasterics of patients with obesity and eating disorders in collaboration with the Dept. of Psychiatry. Currently, we are developing programmes for the treatment of patients with morbid obesity.

The above mentioned methods allow us to extensively study glucose metabolism in different patient groups.