Pennington Biomedical is a world-wide leader in nutrition research and treatment. Pennington has been involved in the development of all approved obesity medications on the market today and many key diabetes medications. Under the guidance of Dr. John Kirwan, the center’s primary work is to understand the triggers of chronic disease, especially obesity and diabetes. Kirwan is internationally recognized for his discovery that certain surgical procedures can often cure type 2 diabetes. An LSU campus and part of the Baton Rouge Health District, the five individual research centers are spread across its own sprawling 222-acre space.