Lipids are biomolecules that, due to their structural diversity, play central roles in numerous cellular processes. The integrity of the cell membrane—an essential feature for life—is largely maintained by lipid molecules. Beyond their role in energy metabolism, various lipids are involved in critical biological processes such as signal transduction, endocytosis, and apoptosis. A significant portion of the genome encodes proteins that synthesize, metabolize, and regulate lipids.
For many years, lipids remained in the shadow of DNA, RNA, and proteins. However, research over the past four decades has led to major advances in understanding cellular function and homeostasis. Despite these achievements, the existence of many yet unexplained metabolic phenomena continues to present challenging research questions that will engage lipid scientists for years to come.
In recent years, the use of advanced mass spectrometry techniques and the development of bioinformatic tools have enabled more detailed characterization of lipids, attracting increasing numbers of researchers to the field. Many new projects now focus primarily on lipid analyses. Moreover, various lipid molecules identified in the circulation through lipidomic techniques show great promise as potential biomarkers for a better understanding of physiology and for disease diagnosis.
Following the first meeting held on our university campus in 2016, the Hacettepe Lipid Research Group was established and has since organized six workshops. The proceedings of previous meetings are available at https://hulipag.hacettepe.edu.tr/toplantilar.shtml
At the 7th Lipid Research Workshop, to be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, distinguished speakers will present their original research findings. Following the workshop, it is aimed to develop new project proposals and establish collaborative research partnerships.