Research Projects
The Role of Circadian Gene Per2 in White Adipose Tissue Browning


Programme(s) to which this project applies:
☑ MPhil/PhD ☒ MRes[Med] ☒ URIS

Objective and Significance
 The aim of the current study is to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of Per2 mutation on WAT browning as well as BAT function. This study will provide evidence for the circadian genes affecting our adipose tissue function and homeostasis, which will draw people’s attention to the importance of the coordinated circadian rhythmicity in metabolic disease as well as maintenance of our heath life.

Research Plan and Methodology
 Firstly, we will construct the adipose cell with Per2 knockdown. Then we will address 1) whether or not Per2 knockdown affecting the process of both adipogenesis and WAT browning? 2) whether or not Per2 knockdown disrupting the mitochondrial biogenesis and function of BAT as well as energy substrate utilization? by detection of key molecules involving in brown adipogenesis, thermogenesis and mitochondrial genesis as well as glucose and FA catabolism. 
Secondly, we will explore the underlying molecular mechanism of Per2 knockdown-affected white adipose tissue browning by targeting the AMPK signaling.
In summary, these experiments and results will provide evidence for the critical role of circadian gene Per2 in adipose tissue function and white adipose tissue browning.

 

Dr. Zhongyan ZHOU, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy

 

Biography
HKU Scholars Hub
ORCID
zyzhouhk@hku.hk

For more information or to express interest for this project, please email the supervisor or the specified contact point in the project description.  Interested candidates are advised to enclose with your email:

  1. your CV,
  2. a brief description of your research interest and experience, and
  3. two reference letters (not required for HKUMed UG students seeking MRes[Med]/URIS projects).

Information on the research programme, funding support and admission documentations could be referenced online at the Research Postgraduate Admissions website. General admission enquiries should be directed to rpgmed@hku.hk.

HKUMed MBBS students interested in the Master of Research in Medicine (MRes[Med]) programme may visit the programme website for more information.  

HKUMed UG students interested in the Undergraduate Research Internship Scheme (URIS) may visit the scheme’s website for more information. 

Research @ Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy