2.2. 2023, Laboratory of Mitochondrial Physiology

Laboratory name: Mitochondrial Physiology

Laboratory website

PhD project:The role of mitochondrial phospholipase A2γ and mitochondrial redox and lipid signaling in selected tissues

Mitochondria are dynamic, energy-transforming, and signaling organelles that have become the most studied organelle in the biomedical sciences. One of the long-term goals of our laboratory includes uncovering mechanisms in which mitochondrial oxidants, lipids, and lipid-derived electrophiles participate in redox homeostasis and cellular signaling. This includes the convergence of mitochondrial lipid and redox signaling and the role of mitochondrial phospholipases.

The aim of the PhD project is to characterize the role of mitochondrial phospholipase A2γ and mitochondria-derived lipids in selected tissues and cell types, specifically in brown adipocytes, specialized in non-shivering thermogenesis, and in pancreatic β-cells, responsible for insulin secretion. Our laboratory uses a wide range of biochemical and biophysical approaches, including models of isolated reconstituted iPLA2y, isolated mitochondria, isolated brown adipocytes and pancreatic islets, and in vivo models using genetically modified mice. There are ample opportunities for motivated students.

References:

Průchová P., et al, Antioxidant role and cardiolipin remodeling by redox-activated mitochondrial Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2γ in the brain, Antioxidants, 2022 Jan 20;11(2):198

Ježek P., et al, Contribution of mitochondria to insulin secretion by various secretagogues, Antioxid Redox Signal, 2022 May;36(13-15):920-952.

Jabůrek M., et al, Antioxidant synergy of mitochondrial phospholipase PNPLA8/iPLA2γ with fatty acid-conducting SLC25 gene family transporters, Antioxidants, 2021 Apr 26;10(5):678

Supervisor (email): Martin Jabůrek, Ph.D. (martin.jaburek@fgu.cas.cz)

Candidate’s profile (requirements):

We are seeking outstanding self-motivated candidates with master's degree or equivalent in biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, or related fields, or those expecting to obtain their degree this year. Candidates should be fluent in English. Experience with biochemical and molecular biology techniques is an advantage.