Biological effects of products from the catabolic pathway of heme
Can “Waste Products” Help Protect Human Health? Join a Research Project That’s Changing the Way We Understand Heme Metabolism
What if substances long dismissed as mere “waste” actually hold the key to treating some of today’s most pressing health challenges?
Our research focuses on bilirubin and carbon monoxide (CO)—once considered toxic byproducts of heme breakdown. Emerging evidence now reveals that both are powerful bioactive molecules with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties.
Mildly elevated levels of bilirubin—such as those seen in individuals with Gilbert’s syndrome—are associated with a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Similarly, low concentrations of CO demonstrate protective effects ranging from vasodilation to defense against oxidative stress.
PhD Project: Uncovering the Biological Role of Bilirubin and CO
This doctoral research aims to:
- Explore the cellular and tissue-level signaling and biological functions of bilirubin and CO.
- Clarify their roles in the onset and progression of chronic inflammation-related diseases, including atherosclerosis and MASLD (Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease).
- Investigate the complications of phototherapy in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
What You’ll Gain
You’ll build deep theoretical knowledge and gain hands-on experience with a wide range of cutting-edge experimental techniques, such as:
- Cell culture
- Light and fluorescence microscopy
- Gas and liquid chromatography
- Western blotting
- Flow cytometry (FACS)
- Respirometry
- Other essential molecular and cell biology methods
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome motivated students with a strong interest in biology, biomedicine, and innovative research in the fields of oxidative stress, metabolic diseases, and cell signaling.
Become part of a research team working on discoveries with real potential to shape the medicine of the future.
More info at: lucie.muchova@lf1.cuni.cz
More about admission requirements here
Submit your application here
