Sebastian Brachs

"The research project aims to mechanistically decipher the function of the G-protein-coupled receptor GPR146 in the differentiation of fat cells (adipocytes) and in lipid metabolism. GPR146 shows promising properties as a potential target for new therapies against obesity and related metabolic diseases. The studies are carried out on genetically modified cell lines and primary cells from mice.

For these analyses, a modern EVOS M7000 Cell Imaging System is required, which enables automated, high-resolution imaging of cell cultures. This allows lipid droplet storage, cell growth, nutrient uptake and signaling pathways to be efficiently analyzed and evaluated. The acquisition of the device will close a key gap in our methodological portfolio and will also be used in other projects. It can also be used for histological examinations by other working groups at the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. The project makes an important contribution to translational obesity and metabolic research."