Michael Lustgarten

Michael Lustgarten is a prominent scientist currently serving as Scientist II at the USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA), which is affiliated with Tufts University. His primary research focuses on the role of the gut microbiome and serum metabolome in relation to muscle mass and function in older adults, particularly within the context of aging and sarcopenia (the loss of muscle mass and strength) .13

Education and Career

Dr. Lustgarten earned his PhD in Physiology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio between 2003 and 2009. He has since become an influential figure in nutritional science, contributing significantly to the field through both research and education. He has served as a guest lecturer at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, discussing topics such as oxidative stress, exercise, and aging .13

Research Contributions

Dr. Lustgarten has authored or co-authored 25 publications in peer-reviewed journals, which have collectively garnered over 2,400 citations. Notably, he has been the first or last author on 17 manuscripts, highlighting his significant contributions to scientific literature .13 His work often explores how dietary patterns and metabolic processes can influence health outcomes in aging populations.

Public Engagement

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Lustgarten is actively involved in public discussions about health and aging, including self-experimentation and biohacking approaches to longevity. He has presented at various conferences and has been featured in interviews discussing his insights into biological aging .12

Overall, Michael Lustgarten's research is pivotal in understanding how nutrition and metabolism affect aging, aiming to develop strategies that promote healthier aging processes.