Lipidomics update - May 2011
The lipidomics update provides an overview of developments in lipid research. Each month we offer a fresh collection of research, news and events for the specialist and the interested non-specialist alike. Register for our email alert to stay informed.
Lipid of the month
Cardiolipin
This unique four-chained phospholipid is important in the function of multiple enzymes involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism.
Research highlights
Voltage-gated ion channels: Lipids in chargeBy surrounding and gating the ion-conducting pore, lipids modulate the opening of a bona fide and highly studied voltage-gated potassium channel.
Obesity and diabetes: Oleate versus palmitateBy reducing the production and activity of the enzyme that makes ceramide, monounsaturated fatty acids prevent palmitate-induced insulin resistance.
Immunology: Saturated fats up inflammationPalmitate stimulates the inflammasome, which activates the inflammatory response, in cultured mouse macrophages.
News
- Cardiovascular disease: The diet–microbe morbid union
- NIH firm on grant application rules
- Social media: Self-reflection, online
- Consulting: Juggling act
Events calendar
Gordon Molecular Membrane Biology Conference
10 - 15 July, 2011
Bioactive Lipids in Cancer, Inflammation and Related Diseases
18 - 21 September, 2011
Research library
- Linking lipids to Alzheimer's disease: cholesterol and beyond Nature Reviews Neuroscience
- A lipidomic screen of palmitate-treated MIN6 β-cells links sphingolipid metabolites with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and impaired protein trafficking Biochemical Journal
- more from the research library
