Scientists in Leipzig are researching metabolic diseases in special rooms. Metabolic chambers were acquired a good year ago for this purpose. The experts want to use them to better understand the mechanisms that link diseased fatty tissue to diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure and some types of cancer, said Matthias Blüher, Head of the Helmholtz Institute for Metabolism, Obesity and Vascular Research (HI-MAG).
What are metabolic chambers?
A new study is now underway in which test subjects spend five 24-hour periods in the chamber. The special rooms are also designed for overweight people weighing up to 250 kilograms as well as children and adolescents and even competitive athletes, explained the coordinator of the HI-MAG study outpatient clinic, Sarah Frenzel. The chambers, which measure around ten square meters, are comfortably furnished, including sanitary facilities, an emergency button and an intercom system for contact with the outside world. The test subjects can also open the door at any time.
