The Lab: Gatorade Sports Science Institute

Biochemistry Lab

Precision on the field of play can mean the difference between victory and defeat. The same holds true for the scientific research conducted within GSSI. The Biochemistry Lab at GSSI houses state-of-the-art analytical equipment that allows scientists to analyze the samples collected from subjects being tested both within the GSSI Exercise Physiology Laboratory and outside of GSSI in various field studies. Samples are analyzed for a vast array of test-specific biochemical parameters concerning fluid and electrolyte balance, energy metabolism, and hormonal response. These measures provide insight into the effectiveness of the nutritional intervention that is being tested and data that allows precise comparison to other sports nutrition products.

Biochemistry Lab Tour

1. Fuels and Metabolite Measurement: Blood samples are analyzed to determine how nutritional intervention during GSSI testing has affected the delivery of fuels such as carbohydrate and fat, protein metabolism, lactic acid production, and changes in blood volume.
2. Electrolyte Measurement: Samples of blood, sweat, and urine from athletes involved in research studies are tested for a variety of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride.
3. Hormone Measurement: Blood and saliva samples collected during GSSI procedures are tested for the presence of hormones that regulate energy metabolism during exercise and help control fluid balance and electrolyte levels. Examples of hormonal assays conducted within the Biochemistry Lab include insulin, growth hormone, aldosterone, and cortisol analyses.