Biomedical Sciences ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 8-1-2023

Abstract

Lipids are one of life’s four main macromolecules and provide essential functions to cells.

The degradation of lipid droplets and mobilization of lipids occurs through lipolysis. Emerging evidence demonstrates evidence of a selective form of autophagy in lipolysis. The process of microlipophagy has only recently been described, and many features of its regulation are still poorly understood. Our recent study showed that inhibiting mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway by depletion of Raptor in adipocytes led to an influx of lysosomes and accumulation of lipid droplets within lysosome. Here, we expand on these previous findings. We were able to conclude that more lysosomes were induced when BARs are activated rather than by mTORC1 inhibition. This research could help elucidate the dynamics of lipid droplet turnover which is pivotal to developing novel treatments for metabolic diseases.

Keywords

microlipophagy, adipocytes, mTOR

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Biomedical Sciences

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program

First Committee Member (Chair)

Curt Hines

Second Committee Member

Meilian Liu

Third Committee Member

Jing Pu

Fourth Committee Member

Xiang Xue

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