Project: Cellular cholesterol homeostasis

About

Cholesterol is an essential component of cell membranes and a precursor to many biological molecules. Its concentration must be strictly regulated, as an imbalance can lead to serious diseases, particularly cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders.
Our project explores an innovative mechanism for regulating cholesterol based on its spatial organization in the endoplasmic reticulum. In particular, we are studying the role of cholesterol esters, traditionally considered a simple form of storage, but which may also play an active role in regulating the enzymes responsible for lipid homeostasis.
This work aims to define how membrane organization and lipid exchange contribute to the regulation of cholesterol metabolism and could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets for metabolic diseases.