The Function of Nuclear Receptors in Metabolic Processes
David Moore, Professor
Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology
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Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) form a subset of nuclear receptors, currently comprising three distinct members: PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARδ. Each receptor seems to influence pathways situated at the crossroads of intermediary metabolism and inflammation, imparting significant physiological and clinical relevance to them (Bensinger and Tontonoz, 2008).
PPARα, a well-known nuclear receptor, becomes active through its interaction with natural ligands such as fatty acids and synthetic ligands such as fibrate. This receptor primarily manifests in the liver, heart, and muscles, serving as a key controller of fatty acid transportation, catabolism, and the balance of energy within the body. Thus, PPARα emerges as a compelling candidate for sensing energy equilibrium.
Given PPARα's central involvement in energy-deprived states, it likely possesses a novel function in regulating energy homeostasis through translational control. We have uncovered evidence of this function and aim to further comprehend its distinctive mechanism.
Qualifications: Major roles for the undergraduate are to actively participate lab meetings/journal clubs/discussion about our projects and learn/conduct molecular experiments with both in vivo and in vitro model systems such as DNA/RNA/Protein extraction, qPCR, Western Blot, cell culture, genotyping and so on.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Jinse Kim, Ph.D. candidate
Hours: to be negotiated
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Biological & Health Sciences