The dysregulation of adipokines, signaling proteins secreted by adipose tissue, contributes to the development of major diseases like metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. The CTRP family of proteins, a subset of adipokines, is known to mediate prometabolic, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory cellular responses. Studies in animals have shown that CTRP proteins can attenuate insulin resistance and mitigate obesity-related metabolic disturbances. However, despite the therapeutic potential of CTRP adipokines, little is known about their mechanisms of action. In this research project, we will use X-ray crystallography and biosensor technologies to elucidate the atomic-level structures and interactions that enable CTRPs to induce physiological responses. By resolving these molecular mechanisms, we aim to understand how CTRP adipokines function, and to provide templates for designing drugs that can produce metabolism-enhancing responses similar to these adipokines.

2025

2029