The central focus of the Hill Lab investigates the distinctive impact of dietary protein on adipose tissue function. Commonly known as body fat, adipose tissue is a critical regulator of energy and glucose homeostasis. However, aging and obesity contribute to various impairments within adipose tissue that are detrimental to optimal health. Diets that either reduce caloric (CR) intake or alter the intake of amino acids, including dietary protein restriction (DPR) defends against the detriments of aging and obesity. Our lab uses a model of DPR to determine the adaptive response of adipose tissue. Likewise, we aim to determine the impact of DPR on adipose-specific, distant from liver, transcriptional programs that regulate metabolic and endocrine health during aging.
Associate Professor of Gerontology
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Email: cristalh@usc.edu
Recent News
- Cristal Hill Receives GSA Nathan Shock New Investigator Awardon July 24, 2024
- USC Leonard Davis School Black History Month Event Features Traditions Passed Down from Generations Beforeon February 16, 2024
- Supporting the Future of the Fieldon January 12, 2024
- Eat Well, Age Wellon January 12, 2024
- New Faculty Faceson December 1, 2023
Primary Research Areas
- Biology of aging
- Nutrient sensing
- Tissue-specific metabolic targets
- Macronutrients effects on health-span and lifespan




