We are committed to elucidating the complex metabolic pathways that drive disease pathogenesis, with the ultimate goal of identifying innovative therapeutic targets.
Project 1: Deciphering the Adipose-Muscle Crosstalk in Cancer-Associated Cachexia: Towards Early Biomarker Discovery and Intervention Strategies
Cancer-associated cachexia (CAC) is an energy-wasting syndrome marked by body weight loss as a result of adipose tissue and skeletal muscle atrophy. Effective therapeutic procedures to treat CAC are limited and the underlying mechanisms are not very well defined. Recent studies suggest a complex interplay between adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, implicating adipose-muscle crosstalk as a crucial determinant in the pathogenesis of cachexia. By leveraging advanced omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, we will identify candidate biomarkers associated with the onset and progression of cachexia. Furthermore, we will investigate potential therapeutic targets through in vitro and in vivo models, with a focus on preserving muscle mass, attenuating adipose tissue wasting, and improving overall metabolic function. Collaborations with clinicians and access to patient cohorts will enable validation of biomarkers and intervention strategies in clinical settings, paving the way for personalized approaches to managing cancer-associated cachexia. Through this interdisciplinary effort, we aspire to advance our understanding of cachexia pathophysiology, facilitate early diagnosis, and develop targeted interventions to alleviate the burden of this devastating syndrome on cancer patients.
Project 2: Modulating Energy Metabolism to Limit Tumor Progression
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a type of fat tissue primarily involved in thermogenesis, which is the process of generating heat. Several studies have suggested that brown fat activation may have implications for cancer progression, although the exact nature of this relationship is still not fully understood. Metabolic effects including glucose and lipid metabolism, hormonal factors, inflammation and immunity and angiogenesis are key factors that are modulated by brown fat activation. This project aims to constrain tumor growth by targeting adipose tissue metabolism and promoting the greatest amount of energy expenditure.
Project 3: Exploring the Regulation of Gαq Signaling in Key Metabolic Processes and Energy Homeostasis
The increase in obesity worldwide has led to rising health care costs and a surge in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), heart disease, and many cancers. Activation of mitochondrial respiration provides thermogenic fat the capacity to dissipate chemical energy as heat and offers tremendous potential to combat obesity. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling mitochondrial thermogenic respiration are not fully understood. Gαq signaling plays a crucial role in regulating key metabolic processes and maintaining energy homeostasis in cells. Gαq is a member of the G protein family, which acts as a molecular switch to transmit signals from cell surface receptors to intracellular effectors. This project aims at delineating the mechanisms underlying the role of Gαq signaling pathway in regulating whole-body metabolism.
Rahbani Lab 