Abstract:

Biological membranes are commonly conceptualized as lipid landscapes, where dynamic lipid assemblies shaped by intricate biophysical properties and lipid-lipid interactions define specific patterns crucial for maintaining membrane integrity, fluidity, and functionality. These lipid domains, characterized by distinct compositional and organizational features, play essential roles in membrane physiology. Perturbations in lipid composition can disrupt membrane organization, leading to diverse cellular responses and contributing to pathological states. Sphingolipids (SLs), an important lipid class involved in numerous cellular events and diseases, are increasingly recognized for their role in shaping lipid domains and modulating cellular processes. This talk will address the biophysical principles underlying sphingolipids domain formation and the impact of altered lipid composition on membrane organization and function. Specifically, I will discuss how physiological changes in sphingolipid composition lead to lipid domain formation and membrane remodeling, and how this changes membrane trafficking. Furthermore, the pathological consequences of dysregulated sphingolipid landscapes in lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs), such as the Gaucher disease (GD) and Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC), will be examined.

Understanding these biophysical alterations in lipid landscapes provides crucial insights into the mechanisms by which lipid dysregulation impacts cellular function and contributes to disease. This knowledge advances our understanding of membrane biology, guiding future research into therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring lipid homeostasis and mitigating the detrimental effects of dysregulated lipid landscapes on human health.