Defective Branched chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism links adipose tissue dysfunction and type 2 diabetes

Branched chain amino acids (BCAA; including leucine, isoleucine and valine) are essential amino acid that are metabolized in adipose tissues. Multiple human and animal studies proved that elevated level of BCAA contributes to the type 2 diabetes in obesity. The elevation of BCAA is correlated with adipose tissue dysfunction but the underlying mechanism remain elusive. In this project, we will dissect the cause of defective BCAA metabolism in obese adipose tissue, and determine whether restoration of BCAA metabolism in adipose tissue is able to alleviate type 2 diabetes. My research team/PolyU is equipped the metabolomics and proteomics platforms, cell culture facilities, genetic animals modified animal models for the investigations. A student with previous experience in metabolic research and/or animal study is an advantage in the application.

The position is now available with funding support (~2500 USD per month) and the potential candidate can start the PhD study on Mid Jan 2022 or 1 Sept 2022.

The latest QS Ranking of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is #66

You can find my research from the following links:

https://scholar.google.com.hk/citations?user=yaYruBYAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao

https://www.polyu.edu.hk/hti/images/Staff/Profile_CHENG_Kenneth.pdf

Research platforms in PolyU:

University Life Science: https://uls.polyu.edu.hk/

University Research Facility in Big Data Analytics : https://ubda.polyu.edu.hk/

University Research Facility in Chemical and Environmental Analysis: https://ucea.polyu.edu.hk/

Department of Health and Informatics Technology (Host department of the PhD student) : https://www.polyu.edu.hk/hti/en/facilities/research-laboratory.html