Project:

The  role of ECM deposition in the pathological adipose tissue expansion

Mentor (Advisor):

Lenka Rossmeislová, PhD (a head of Laboratory of Physiology and Pathophysiology of Adipose Tissue)

Department:

Department of pathophysiology

Contact information:

Project Narrative:

Excessive deposition of adipose tissue (AT) is a typical feature of lymphedema and lipedema, two chronic and incurable debilitating diseases. Although the pathophysiological mechanisms behind the development of these diseases are different, we propose that pathophysiological changes in the ECM may be both cause and consequence of observed AT accumulation. Therefore, the PhD project will tackle the AT microenvironment characteristics in lipedema and lymphedema, with the special focus on extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and properties that can impact growth or functionality of adipocytes. To get the necessary evidence that ECM may drive AT pathophysiologic changes, the project will combine the clinical study with in vitro experimental approach on human cells.

Requirements for student applicants:

The candidate must have a biological, biochemical or medical type of education (MSc, MD) before commencing PhD studies. We are looking for highly motivated individuals for whom science is more a mission than a job. The topic is funded by the H2020 TheraLymph project: Gene Therapy to restore lymphatic flow lymphedema and internal grant of CUNI COOPERATIO. The study can also be carried out in the form of Cotutelle, with the cooperation of the INSERM laboratory.