Unraveling the biology of
lipid droplets in
trypanosomes.
A basic research project exploring
metabolic adaptation and the pathogenicity of African parasites.
This research program explores the role of proteins involved in the
biology of trypanosomes and their lipid droplets. By combining
biochemistry, cell biology, and '-omics' approaches, we aim to characterize
these organelles to better understand their functions and interactions
The Genesis of the Project
A Mysterious Protein
It all began with a simple question about the
pathogenicity of trypanosomes. By exploring
databases, we identified an intriguing protein,
similar to potato 'Patatin'. For ten
years, its function remained an enigma.
The connection to lipid droplets
The breakthrough occurred when Perrine Hervé
discovered that this Patatin was associated with
lipid droplets. These organelles, long
overlooked, proved to be central hubs of the
parasite's cellular metabolism.
OiL Project
To explore these structures, we joined forces with
Cyrille Botté, an expert in lipidomics. The ANR
OIL project was born from this synergy, aiming to decipher the
dynamics and parasitic functions of these organelles.
Our Team
Loïc Rivière
Professor(University of Bordeaux)
Kathyanna Arnould
Doctoral StudentANR OIL
Perrine Hervé
Doctor / Post-doc(Alumni)
Cyrille Botté
Research Director(CNRS)
Yoshiki Yamaryo-Botté
Research Engineer(University Grenoble-Alpes)
A Multidisciplinary Approach
To successfully complete this project, we use a wide range of experimental approaches, from functional genomics to the latest imaging techniques.
Functional Genomics: Study of candidate genes and their impact on virulence.
Advanced Imaging: Use of the services provided by the Bordeaux Imaging Center
Lipidomics & Metabolomics: Detailed analysis of lipids using the GEMELI platform (Grenoble) and Bordeaux Proteome.
They support us
