Grant: CIHR/Regional Partnership Program/Operating Grants

Metabolic syndrome is becoming more common as Canadians age, eat (too) well, and don't exercise and is of great medical concern as it leads to Diabetes, obesity and early heart disease. These metabolic imbalances can be studied at the cellular level, as individual cells also require efficient metabolisms to ensure a steady energy supply. Central to metabolic balance is an energy sensor called AMPK, found in every plant and animal cell. Turning on AMPK can mend the metabolic imbalances in laboratory tests, and also in obese Diabetic patients. AMPK activation happens through exercise, weight-loss, and antidiabetic drugs (Metformin and Avandia). Understanding the cellular signals that regulate AMPK will provide insights into how its activity can be manipulated to improve metabolism. In our lab we use brewers yeast to study AMPK regulation. The AMPK in yeast and humans are very similar, making it likely that the knowledge gained from yeast will apply to humans We have discovered a new way that AMPK can be regulated in yeast cells, and want to test how important this might be in more complex cells and people. Our studies will provide insights into normal regulation of AMPK and highlight treatments aimed at metabolic syndrome.