13.1. 2020, Laboratory of Metabolism of Bioactive Lipids

Laboratory of Metabolism of Biactive Lipids

PhD project: Targeted analysis of metabolic pathways - fluxomics by LC-MS/MS

The focus of our lab is the metabolism and regulatory actions of bioactive lipids, specifically those related to pathways of glucose and lipid metabolism. We are interested in products of de novo lipogenesis such as branched fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFA), in anti-inflammatory & pro-resolving eicosanoids and docosanoids, and in endocannabinoid-like metabolites derived from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The aim of the project is to develop a methodology to describe changes in metabolic flows in pathophysiological conditions based on biochemical knowledge and methods of analytical chemistry. This topic covers work with cell lines, biochemical analyses of metabolites and functional tests using stale isotopes and radionuclides, optimization of UPLC-MS/MS methods for tracking ¹³C, ¹⁵N and ²H-labeled metabolites (glycolysis, citric acid cycle, oxidation and lipid synthesis, ...). The final data will be modeled with fluxomic software solutions on metabolic maps. Project will be carried out at the Institute of Physiology ASCR, v.v.i. and financially secured by GA CR grants.

Candidate’s profile (requirements):

We are looking for curious, imaginative, independent and highly-motivated applicants holding a master’s degree (or those expecting to obtain their degree this year) with experience in analytical chemistry or (bio)chemistry. The position is open for the graduates, but skills in any of the following: bioinformatics/programing, cell cultures, LC-MS/MS are a plus or can be learned in the lab.

Supervisor: Ondrej Kuda, Ph.D. (ondrej.kuda@fgu.cas.cz)

Relevant publications:

1. Paluchova et al., Lipokine 5-PAHSA is Regulated by Adipose Triglyceride Lipase and Primes Adipocytes for de novo Lipogenesis in Mice. Diabetes. 2019 Dec 5. pii: db190494. doi: 10.2337/db19-0494
2. Brezinova et al., Exercise training induces insulin-sensitizing PAHSAs in adipose tissue of elderly women. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids. 2019 Nov 16;1865(2):158576. doi: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2019.158576
3. Kuda et al., Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Defense and Peroxiredoxin 6 Are Linked to Biosynthesis of Palmitic Acid Ester of 9-Hydroxystearic Acid. Diabetes. 2018 Jun;67(6):1190-1199. doi: 10.2337/db17-1087
4. Brezinova et al., Levels of palmitic acid ester of hydroxystearic acid (PAHSA) are reduced in the breast milk of obese mothers. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids. 2018 Feb;1863(2):126-131. doi: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2017.11.004