Harvard Catalyst Profiles

The Wyant Lab is interested in the role of organelle metabolism in tissue physiology and disease with a particular focus on the skeletal and cardiac muscle systems. Current projects include novels mechanisms of the muscle hypertrophy and atrophy, identification of strategies to protect ischemic tissues, and metabolic control of heart failure and brain disorders. The student is expected to play a major role in driving any project of their interest. Prior experience is a plus but not required.

The laboratory is dedicated to pursuing a cellular and molecular understanding of how physiological cues, such as oxygen, nutrients, mechanical, or electrical signals regulate tissue physiology and function, with special reference to heart and skeletal muscle. We have a deep interest in understanding the pathophysiological consequences of disruption of any of these signals, such as in the setting of ischemic injury, starvation, or denervation, and development of novel therapeutic approaches. We are particularly interested in organelle metabolism in relation to these tissues and the development of novel tools to isolate and study compartmentalized metabolism in the in vivo context. Skills required: students with basic biology lab skillsets are encouraged to apply. Students will have the opportunity to work with senior scientists in the lab and be trained for lab techniques. Learning outcomes: research skills such as study design, data analysis methods, presentations, scientific writing, and attending seminars/conferences at MGH/Harvard, as well as lab skillsets such as mouse models, in vivo physiology, exercise studies, whole-body metabolism, protein expression and purification, ELISA analysis, generating stable cell lines, cell culture, running SDS-PAGE, mass-spectrometry, western blot analyses, protein labeling, and working with instruments such as FPLC, LC-MS, microscopy and flow cytometry. Students will have the opportunity to be publish first author and co-author papers during their time in the lab.