The CB laboratory utilizes high-resolution respirometry, a modern oxygraphy method, to precisely measure oxygen consumption, directly reflecting mitochondrial respiratory activity in samples. By applying specific substrates and inhibitors, this method allows assessment of mitochondrial integrity and the activity of distinct mitochondrial functions, including electron transport chain complexes.
The CB laboratory has expertise in handling a wide range of human cell lines. A laminar-flow oxygen chamber enables experiments under controlled oxygen concentrations, including prolonged culture at 5% oxygen, corresponding to physiological tissue levels (physioxia).
Using the competence and methods mentioned above, the Laboratory of Chemical Biology offers the following services:
Functional assessment of muscle performance and recovery capacity can be conducted on a muscle biopsy using high-resolution respirometry, which enables the evaluation of overall mitochondrial energy-productionrate, the activity of individual respiratory chain complexes in mitochondria, as well as the type and efficiency of energy transfer (creatine kinase and adenylate kinase pathway activities). This approach allows the identification of potential primary causes underlying impaired muscle function and permits the monitoring of therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the methodology is applicable in animal models across a range of disease conditions and in initial stage of pharmacological research.
Our laboratory is equipped to determine the intracellular transfer of drugs and drug carriers, enabling analysis of their localization within specific regions of both fixed and live cells. Additionally, we can conduct preliminary functional studies to evaluate the impact of the compounds on cellular metabolism.
We determine the impact of drugs or drug carriers on cellular (energy) metabolism, providing rapid results that inform decision-making before progression into large-scale studies.
Using the methodologies available in our laboratory, it is possible to evaluate both cell viability and subtle functional alterations in cellular energy metabolism that precede significant declines in viability.
Comprehensive analyses can be performed to determine metabolic alterations in cells exposed to unfavorable (e.g., polluted) environments. In addition, the effects of contaminants on tissue energy metabolism can be tested using animal models. Aquatic organisms can be assessed as well, enabling the identification of pathological processes in energy metabolism associated with such exposures.
Studies have demonstrated that extracellular vesicles influence cellular metabolism by transferring bioactive molecules, including proteins, peptide fragments, and other biomolecules, which then modulate the function of the recipient cell. Using high resolution respirometry as a rapid functional assay, the effects of extracellular vesicles on cellular metabolism, with a particular focus on energy metabolism, can be evaluated.
Using cellular blood components, such as platelets, our laboratory can rapidly detect alterations in energy metabolism, providing quick functional insights before progression to large-scale studies.
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