New at Pennington Biomedical: Get to Know Dr. Zubaidah Nor Hanipah, professor-research in clinical metabolic surgery
Dr. Zubaidah "Zuby" Nor Hanipah recently joined Pennington Biomedical as an associate professor-research in the Clinical Metabolic Surgery Laboratory. Dr. Nor Hanipah's research interests encompass a comprehensive study of metabolic and bariatric surgery outcomes, with a primary emphasis on obesity, metabolic disorders, and metabolic syndrome.
Dr. Nor Hanipah is particularly focused on exploring how metabolic and bariatric surgical procedures can effectively mitigate the complications associated with obesity and metabolic syndromes, making this opportunity with Pennington Biomedical and the Metamor Institute a perfect fit for her skills and interest.
Get to know more about Dr. Zubaidah "Zuby" Nor Hanipah and the work she is doing in the field of bariatric surgery below:
What drew you to this opportunity with the Pennington Biomedical Research Center and Metamor?
I am a bariatric surgeon, academician, and clinical researcher from University Putra Malaysia (UPM) in Malaysia. I firmly believe that clinical research can revolutionize obesity management and enhance patient care.
Both the LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center (PBRC) and UPM have strong clinical research programs in obesity. However, PBRC's specialized focus, advanced infrastructure, and global collaborations may give it an edge. PBRC is a globally recognized institution dedicated to obesity and chronic disease research, emphasizing the translation of findings into practical community solutions. Its extensive collaborations with universities, healthcare providers, and government agencies worldwide enhance its ability to conduct impactful research and implement findings on a large scale. PBRC has significantly contributed to the development of all approved obesity medications, many key diabetes medications, and obesity management, highlighting its substantial impact on the fields of obesity and type 2 diabetes globally.
I was drawn to the opportunity at PBRC and Metamor Institute due to their innovative approach to clinical research and their dedication to enhancing patient management and care in obesity. Collaborating with exceptional researchers and mentors like Dr. Philip Schauer and Dr. John Kirwan, with whom I have previously worked, made this a unique and invaluable opportunity. The prospect of working alongside top-tier scientists and a team leading scientific discovery, contributing to impactful research that can improve lives, is incredibly motivating for me.
Can you explain a little bit about your research interests?
My research interests primarily focus on obesity, type 2 diabetes, and bariatric surgery. As a bariatric surgeon and clinical researcher, I am deeply invested in exploring how surgical interventions and innovative treatments can improve health outcomes and achieve remission of type 2 diabetes.
Recently, there have been significant studies that highlighted the role of GIP and GLP-1 receptors in managing obesity and type 2 diabetes. These medications, which mimic the action of the GLP-1 hormone, have shown promising results in improving glycemic control and promoting weight loss. When combined with bariatric surgery, GLP-1s can enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment, leading to better health outcomes and higher rates of diabetes remission.
My research aims to further understand these interactions and develop optimized treatment protocols that leverage both surgical and pharmacological approaches, especially in patients with higher BMI, where bariatric surgery is the only proven long-term weight loss treatment available. By integrating clinical research with cutting-edge therapies, I strive to transform and improve obesity management and patient care, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.
Dr. John Kirwan and Dr. Philip Schauer have been a part of a landmark, 12-year "Alliance of Randomized Trials of Medicine vs. Metabolic Surgery in Type2 Diabetes," or ARMMS-T2D, study that has shown a number of findings related to glucose control and type 2 diabetes remission. Other obesity research pioneers such as Dr. George Bray and Dr. Claude Bouchard helped put the Center on the map in chronic disease research.
Were you aware of those pioneers and was that part of the draw to Pennington Biomedical?
Absolutely, I am aware of the significant contributions made by Dr. John Kirwan, Dr. Philip Schauer, Dr. George Bray, and Dr. Claude Bouchard. Their pioneering work in obesity and type 2 diabetes research has been instrumental in advancing our understanding and treatment of these chronic conditions.
The landmark STAMPEDE and ARMMS-T2D studies conducted by Dr. John Kirwan and Dr. Philip Schauer, in particular, have provided invaluable insights into long-term outcomes of bariatric surgery and diabetes remission, which aligns perfectly with my research interests.
The opportunity to work at a center that has been shaped by such influential figures in the field was indeed a major draw for me. Being part of an institution with a strong legacy of impactful research and innovation is incredibly motivating and aligns with my goal of contributing to transformative advancements in obesity management and patient care.
What are some things you are looking forward to accomplishing at Pennington Biomedical? Anything else you'd like to share about your work?
My skills and experience align closely with the goals I aim to achieve at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center:
- Expertise in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: My background as a bariatric surgeon and clinical researcher specializing in obesity and type 2 diabetes directly supports the center's mission to advance understanding and treatment of these conditions.
- Clinical Research Experience: My extensive experience in conducting clinical research aligns with the center's commitment to innovative scientific discoveries. I am adept at designing and implementing studies that can lead to improved patient outcomes and new treatment protocols.
Currently, I am involved in several clinical studies focusing on the outcomes of bariatric surgery in high-risk populations, including those with endometrial neoplasia, heart failure, liver fibrosis, and higher BMI patients.
- Academic Contributions: As an academician, I bring a strong foundation in education and knowledge dissemination in surgery and obesity, which is crucial for the center's goal of training the next generation of researchers and healthcare professionals.
Currently, I am contributing to the development of the obesity fellowship medicine program at the Metamor Institute in Pennington. I am also collaborating with the Greaux Healthy team at Pennington to create a toolkit for clinicians, promoting bariatric surgery as a treatment option for adolescents with obesity. Additionally, I am working on several writing projects focused on Obesity Management and Bariatric Surgery.
- Patient-Centered Approach: My belief in transforming and improving obesity management and patient care through research resonates with the center's focus on translating scientific findings into practical healthcare solutions.
Currently, my work includes developing adolescent bariatric surgery programs and patient care databases for malabsorptive procedures.
- Collaborative Spirit: My ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams aligns with the collaborative environment at Pennington, fostering innovation and comprehensive approaches to complex health issues.
Beyond my work with the Metamor Institute and OLOL members (including the bariatric surgeons, obesity physicians, pediatricians, dietitians, fellows, nurse practitioner, medical assistant, nurses and coordinators), I also collaborate with other departments at Pennington, such as Clinical Medical, Imaging, Metabolism—Body Composition, Pediatric Obesity and Health Behavior, and the Greaux Healthy team.
Provided by Louisiana State University