Johnny Figueroa
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figneurolab.bsky.social
Johnny Figueroa
@figneurolab.bsky.social
#BlackLivesMatter. Dad. Mentor. Neuroscientist. Neurobiological mechanisms linking adolescent trauma to obesity. 🇵🇷🇻🇪🇩🇴 Opinions are my own.
It’s also a great opportunity to ask questions directly if you happen to be reviewing our recently submitted paper:
www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-7...
Brain and hormonal alterations of early trauma linked to binge-like eating
Binge eating is a common condition that increases the risk of obesity and metabolic diseases, yet its neurobiological roots remain poorly understood. Here, we show that adolescent trauma combined with...
www.researchsquare.com
November 18, 2025 at 4:26 PM
Though my heart is heavy, I’m filled with gratitude for his guidance and love. I’ll carry his legacy forward, striving to honor his commitment to others in all that I do. He will always be deeply missed.
October 7, 2025 at 6:06 PM
It was his belief in me that brought me to Loma Linda University, a decision that shaped my path as a scientist, mentor, and person. His influence runs through every part of who I am today.
October 7, 2025 at 6:06 PM
Dr. Marino A. De Leon was a giant in nutritional neuroscience; his brilliant mind matched only by his deep devotion to his students. He had a rare gift for seeing potential where others saw uncertainty, nurturing it with patience and grace.
October 7, 2025 at 6:06 PM
These findings highlight the profound impact of adolescent lifestyle choices on adult health. Understanding these connections can help address and prevent disordered eating patterns and obesity.

Kudos to Julio Sierra and Timothy Simon for their exceptional work on this project! NIDDK-funded study.
April 18, 2025 at 8:56 PM
We also discovered:

✔️Eating and body weight changes: Adolescent male rats who faced stress ate more calories and were more prone to gaining weight in adulthood.

✔️Long-term effects: Adolescent exposure to an unhealthy diet and stress led to lasting hormonal imbalances.
April 18, 2025 at 8:56 PM
Our study delved into how a high-saturated-fat diet during adolescence and stress can influence obesity-related outcomes later in life. We discovered:

✔️ Hormonal changes: Adolescent male rats consuming fatty diets showed elevated testosterone levels and a diminished stress hormone response.
April 18, 2025 at 8:56 PM