Three dimensional image of human visceral adipose tissue showcasing a portion of the tissue containing nerve fibers, with adipocytes and immune cells. Orange=Immune cells, White = Adipocytes, and Green= nerve fibers
Adipose tissue plays a key role in metabolic regulation as the body's main site for lipid storage. Its uniqueness lies in its distribution across multiple anatomical locations, adaptability, and its diverse forms (white or brown). Adipose tissue is extensively innervated by neurons. Our research focuses on how these neurons affect adipose tissue function and overall energy metabolism.
Lipid droplets (in red) within the cell body of primary dorsal root ganglion neuron grown in culture.
Neurons are highly polarized cells. Their axons can extend from a few millimeters to over a meter from the cell body. Neurons connect different parts of the body and remain electrically active and responsive by efficiently transporting information between the cell body and distant sites. Organelles such as lysosomes play a key role in this process. We are interested in understanding the mechanisms that control organelle dynamics in neurons, as these can become dysfunctional in injury or disease.