The focus of training in lipid sciences is unique among existing graduate schools because of the unique environment of our program, most notably, the assembly of 12 prominent scientists in the field of lipid sciences into a single state-of-the-art research facility and a training plan designed to maximize interaction and collaboration. It is now well recognized that lipid metabolism is central to the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Although cholesterol and saturated fatty acid metabolism has long been associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases, there is now mounting evidence that lipid derangements can promote inflammatory responses that contribute to atherogenesis, type 2 diabetes, lupus, cancer, and asthma.
In spite of a growing awareness that alterations in the type and level of dietary fat may hold promise in prevention of colon, breast and prostate cancer, molecular mechanisms underlining these protective effects are poorly understood and thus are a focus of research in our program. Fatty acids, particularly n-3 fatty acids, are thought to be protective in the development of chronic diseases, and there is considerable evidence that some of this protection is mediated through control of gene transcription. Indeed, oxidative products of cholesterol and polyunsaturated fatty acids are ligands for nuclear receptors such as liver X receptor (LXR) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR). These factors regulate programs of genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation, and there is strong evidence for reciprocal cross-talk between lipid metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Cholesterol has also been implicated in signaling pathways that control cell growth and cholesterol depletion of transformed cells decreases the proliferative phenotype.
The study of lipid metabolism and chronic diseases requires the integrated approaches of molecular biology, cellular biology and whole animal physiology and the support of sophisticated core technologies, including transgenic/gene targeting biology, genomics/bioinformatics, mass spectrometry (lipidomics and proteomics), and cell-based and whole body imaging.
To meet these needs, we have created a unique environment that combines strong intellectual capital, a history of interdisciplinary and collaborative research, and state-of-the-art technology and research support necessary for the training of young scientists. Graduate students completing our Training Program will have the knowledge and skills to join the national effort in academia, government, and industry to reduce the suffering and death from chronic diseases caused by disturbances in lipid metabolism and inflammation.