The focus of the Muscle Biology Laboratory (MBL), directed by Dr. Jim Fluckey, is to better understand the fundamental mechanisms controlling skeletal muscle protein homeostasis.  Current studies focus on alterations of muscle protein synthesis and degradation with advancing age, after exercise, and during periods of simulated microgravity or disuse.

The Muscle Biology Laboratory is currently engaged in research involving other institutions, with collaborative efforts with teams from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, the University of Texas - Medical Branch.  The lab's involvement with these projects is focused on exploring changes in signaling for mRNA translation during simulated periods of microgravity or imposed bed rest.