Inositol is a six-carbon ring made from glucose and is a precursor to several essential signaling lipids, including: phosphoinositides, inositol phosphates, and inositol pyrophosphates. These inositol compounds play essential roles in an array of cellular processes, including inter- and intracellular signaling, metabolism, membrane biogenesis, membrane trafficking, gene expression, and cytoskeletal organization. Alterations in inositol homeostasis are linked to numerous serious human disorders, including bipolar disorder (BD), epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, Lowe syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and various cancers.
Despite recognizing the sources and functions of inositol-related compounds, the mechanisms governing inositol homeostasis remain enigmatic, and very little is known about the regulatory process itself. My research seeks to understand how inositol synthesis is regulated in mammalian cells at the molecular and genetic levels.
More about Mohamed:
I am from Beirut, Lebanon. I am undertaking a PhD in Biological Sciences and Urban Sustainability, aiming to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change and forge a sustainable path forward for both our planet and its inhabitants.
I completed my Master of Science (MS) in Biology at the American University of Beirut in 2018. Collaborating beyond the borders of AUB, I contributed to numerous articles, twelve of which are already published. On the other hand, I was a lab instructor at AUB, and I had a three-year career as a schoolteacher for grades 4 through 12. This venture nurtured my appreciation for the art of educating and connecting with young minds.
Beyond the confines of laboratories and classrooms, my passion for research pervades all aspects of my life. An adage I hold dear is that “Biology is the science of life and life of science“. It’s a profound privilege to be a scientist, as it imparts valuable life skills like patience, time-management, problem-solving, planning, and teamwork.
Outside my academic pursuits, I am a scout member and have played the saxophone within the scout’s music band. I like to travel, discover new cultures, and meet new people. I find joy in food creations, delving into scientific literature, watching movies, and immersing myself in the serenity of nature. These activities replenish my spirit and provide the balance needed to thrive in my research-driven journey.
