Muscle Protein Metabolism in Obesity

Inclusion criteria:

1. Body mass index (BMI): lean, 19-26 kg/m2; obese, 30-40 kg/m2
2. Availability of transportation
3. Ability to sign informed consent form

Exclusion criteria:

1. Medication or supplements (i.e. amino acids, protein) known to affect protein metabolism
2. Presence of acute illness
3. History of liver disease
4. Uncontrolled metabolic disease
5. ECG documented abnormalities, atrial fibrillation, history of syncope, limiting or unstable angina, or congestive heart failure
6. Chronically elevated blood pressure (systolic, >140 mmHg; diastolic, >100 mmHg)
7. Cardiac pacemaker or other medical device implanted in the body
8. Low hemoglobin or hematocrit
9. Current participation in a weight-loss regimen, including extreme dietary practices
10. Smoking
11. Use of anabolic steroids or corticosteroids (within 3 months)