Short presentation

Short Presentation

Dr. Atul Shahaji Deshmukh is an Associate Professor and Group Leader at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR) in Copenhagen, Denmark. He received his PhD from the Karolinska Institute under the supervision of Prof. Juleen Zierath, and completed his postdoctoral training at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry with Prof. Matthias Mann, where he gained deep expertise in mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Dr. Deshmukh’s group applies advanced proteomics technologies in combination with in vivo and in vitro models to uncover how diet and physical activity reshape protein networks and impact metabolic health. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and was awarded the EFSD/NNF Future Leaders Award in 2019 for his work on exercise-induced proteins.

Primary Field of Research

Metabolic health is regulated by a dynamic interplay between genetic background and environmental factors such as diet and physical activity. The global rise in sedentary behavior and excess caloric intake has led to an alarming increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes—complex, multifactorial diseases characterized by insulin resistance, particularly in skeletal muscle.

Despite strong evidence that exercise improves metabolic health, the molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. These processes are mediated by proteins, which regulate signaling, communication between organs, and cellular function.

The Deshmukh Group uses state-of-the-art proteomics to investigate protein-driven mechanisms that regulate metabolism under both healthy and disease conditions. We focus on:

• Secreted proteins and inter organ communication
• Post-translational modifications (PTMs) and intracellular signaling
• Single-fiber and cell-type-specific analyses of muscle plasticity and adaptation
• Subcellular and spatial proteomics

Our work aims to identify novel biomarkers, elucidate mechanisms of disease progression, and contribute to the development of protein-based therapeutics. We collaborate closely with other hospitals, academic institutions worldwide, and industry partners to accelerate translation of our findings.