Jing Tian Lab

Molecular Regulation of Lipid Metabolism in Health and Disease

Lipids are essential components of cells and play important roles in energy storage, membrane formation, and cellular signaling. Maintaining lipid homeostasis requires cells to precisely coordinate lipid synthesis with nutritional and hormonal conditions. Dysregulation of these processes contributes to metabolic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Our laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms by which hormonal and nutritional signals regulate lipid metabolism in health and disease. A major focus of our research is the sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs), a family of membrane-bound transcription factors that control the synthesis of fatty acids, triglycerides, and cholesterol. We are particularly interested in understanding the molecular events through which insulin, glucagon, and dietary fatty acids regulate SREBP activity, including signaling pathways, protein-protein interactions, transcriptional regulation, and post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation.

By combining molecular, biochemical, and cellular approaches with primary cells and genetically engineered animal models, we aim to define fundamental mechanisms that coordinate lipid synthesis with the metabolic state of the organism, understand how their dysregulation contributes to metabolic disease, and identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention.