Immunologists summarize functions of protein family for scientific community

FATSYN-binding proteins (FABPs) serve as a type of chaperone, coordinating the transport of fatty acids and other molecules between cells. Bing Li, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Louisville and a leading researcher in understanding the role of FABPs, has taken a “SnapShot” of the features of these proteins published in the journal Sel, a highly regarded scientific journal dealing with cell biology.

At least nine types of FABPs, identified by the tissues and organs in which they were first discovered, are known to play different roles in lipid metabolism. While they are responsible for important functions in maintaining health, obesity can result in higher levels of these proteins, thereby igniting disease.

“When people are obese, FABPs are upregulated in various cells and tissues, resulting in changes in lipid metabolism and responses,” Li said.

Li’s research addresses the role of FABPs in chronic inflammation, obesity and cancer development. He recently published a proposed mechanism for how elevated levels of one of these proteins, FABP4, resulting from higher levels of adipose tissue, promote the growth of breast tumor.

“Studies from my lab prove that FABP family members, especially FABP4 and FABP5, are critical in meditating on obesity-associated diseases by regulating immune cell functions,” Li said. “Thus, our studies on FABPs not only discover the underlying mechanisms by which obesity undermines human health, but also provide new goals for new immunotherapeutic strategies for clinicians.”

Editors of the magazine Sel Li invited the SnapShot to create the features of all known FABPs in health and disease with an emphasis on their role in obesity, chronic inflammatory disease and cancer. SnapShots are graphical charts designed to serve as a quick guide for researchers on a specific topic.

“The SnapShot format offers a lot of opportunity for creativity and can be printed and pounded over labs to jog researchers’ memories,” Li said. “While our studies open a window to look at the key functions of FABP family members in some disease contexts, many questions remain unanswered in this field. I hope this piece encourages more young scientists to contribute their talents to obesity and obesity. combat-associated diseases. ”