Microbial lipid cycling in the oceans: an integrated 'omics' approach

Lipids, which contain carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur, are fundamental components of all living cells and are continuously released into marine environments through processes like programmed cell death, viral infections, and zooplankton grazing. Current estimates suggest that lipids contribute approximately 10% to the total pool of dissolved organic matter in the oceans. Despite their significance, our understanding of microbial lipid transformation in marine environments remains limited.
This project aims to address these knowledge gaps by employing both laboratory and field-based methodologies to thoroughly investigate the lipid cycle in marine waters. A key focus will be the development of a high-throughput workflow for the simultaneous identification and quantification of common lipid species. In addition, we will explore the roles of microbial communities by uncovering the identity and activity of key microbes involved in lipid recycling within the ocean. These efforts will provide a comprehensive understanding of how lipids are transformed and reintegrated into marine ecosystems.