Carrel Research Group

Through clinical studies we have sought to better understand the relationship between obesity/body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and the development of insulin resistance in children. This work began in children with a genetic form of obesity, Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS).

Body Composition in Healthy Obese Children

Young man jogging on a treadmillMuch of our current research with nutritionists and exercise physiologists focuses on studies of healthy children and the effect of fitness training on body composition and insulin sensitivity. We have previously worked with high-risk groups such as Native American children (Ho-Chunk Youth Fitness project), and also in school settings. Working with the school districts is an important component of developing translational clinical research on fitness in children. This has led to studies to determine whether a diabetes risk-assessment tool can be developed from school-based assessments.

Pediatric Fitness Through Schools

We have partnered with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to develop a statewide fitness assessment and database for schools across Wisconsin. We have also worked with individual school districts, and after-school programs.

Pediatric Fitness Assessment

We continue to work to test methods in our Exercise Science Lab for non-invasive methods to test cardiovascular fitness and body composition in children and adolescents. We continue to look for new ways to not only assess these changes in school environments, but also to actively promote physical activity in school environments and outside of clinical settings.

Research News

  • What We Published In May 2020

    Al Dhaheri N, Wu N, Zhao S, Wu Z, Blank RD, Zhang J, Raggio C, Halanski M, Shen J, Noonan K, Qiu G, Nemeth B, Sund S, Dunwoodie SL, Chapman G, Glurich I, Steiner RD, Wohler …

  • Pediatrics Research Week 2020 Abstract Book Now Available

    The Pediatrics Research Week 2020 Abstract Book is now available. University of Wisconsin Department of Pediatrics faculty, staff, fellows and residents submitted over 50 research abstracts for the virtual conference, which is taking place May 26-29, 2020. …

  • What We Published in April 2020

    1. Ascierto PA, Fox B, Urba W, Anderson AC, Atkins MB, Borden EC, Brahmer J, Butterfield LH, Cesano A, Chen D, de Gruijl T, Dillman RO, Drake CG, Emens LA, Gajewski TF, Gulley JL, Stephen …

  • Save the Date: Virtual Pediatrics Research Week Begins 5/26/20

    In response to COVID-19, the Department of Pediatrics’ annual Research Week will offer alternative programming to spotlight the scholarly work from its residents, fellows, faculty and staff. Through a mix of livestreamed lectures and interactive …

  • What We Published in March 2020

    Coller RJ, Berry JG, Kuo DZ, Kuhlthau K, Chung PJ, Perrin JM, Hoover CG,Warner G, Shelton C, Thompson LR, Garrity B, Stille CJ. Health System Research Priorities for Children and Youth With Special Health Care …

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Aaron Carrel
Aaron L. Carrel, MD
Professor (CHS)
alcarrel@pediatrics.wisc.edu