Our research aims to understand how signals from certain receptors in immune cells, called G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), affect metabolic tissues like fat, muscle, liver, pancreas, and brain. Additionally, we want to explore how genetic and epigenetic changes (changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence) in these receptors influence the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
To do this, we will use specially bred mice that have specific GPCR genes either deleted or overexpressed in their immune cells. These mice will be fed a high-fat diet to see how these genetic changes affect their likelihood of developing obesity and diabetes. We will compare these mice to normal mice to observe any differences. Similarly, we will study human patients with obesity and diabetes, along with healthy individuals, to see if they have specific genetic changes in their GPCRs.
In the lab, we will isolate immune cells from these mice and human samples and use advanced gene-editing techniques to create precise changes in GPCR genes. This will help us understand how these genetic alterations affect immune cell function and communication with metabolic tissues.
We will closely examine various metabolic tissues from these mice and human samples using different methods to see how they function and how they are affected by changes in GPCR signaling. This includes looking at tissue structure, conducting metabolic tests, and analyzing gene activity.
To understand the genetic and epigenetic changes in detail, we will use techniques like sequencing to identify specific genetic variations and modifications in GPCR genes. We will also use bioinformatics tools to analyze large datasets and identify important patterns and pathways involved.
By combining all these approaches, our research aims to uncover the complex relationships between immune cell signaling, genetic and epigenetic changes in GPCRs, and metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Ultimately, this knowledge could lead to new ways to treat or prevent these conditions.