Lipid metabolism and muscular adaptation Workgroup

The research topics aim at interaction of lipid metabolism and muscular phenotypic plasticity investigated on cellular and systemic level in farm animals and associated models like primary myogenic cell cultures. Lipogenic and myogenic processes of skeletal muscle growth and differentiation are fundamentally affected by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) functioning as signal transduction molecules and transcriptional regulators of gene expression. We contribute to study the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of lipid transport/storage and corresponding adaptive responses on skeletal muscle structure and function predetermined by muscular plasticity. Research topics:

• Lipid metabolism in muscle of farm animals - intervention with PUFAs  
• Muscular plasticity as a basis for adaptation to external and internal stimuli
• Membrane composition, reorganization and their effects on skeletal muscle physiology  

Investigation of the adaptive capacity of skeletal muscles to stimuli like dietary fatty acid intervention, stress or limited physical activity may provide deeper insights into the links between lipid metabolism and muscular growth and differentiation processes. Comprehensive knowledge on muscular adaptive capacity is important for husbandry, health and welfare in farm animals as well as the food safety for consumers.