Sipei Fu

Taurine, a semi-essential amino acid, is one of the most abundant amino acids in our bodies. Taurine deficiency has been linked to conditions like hypertension and liver disease, though the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Our lab has discovered that an orphan enzyme, PTER, can break down N-acetyltaurine into taurine and acetate. Mice lacking PTER showed an increase in N-acetyltaurine and reduced weight gain compared to their wild-type littermates, suggesting that N-acetyltaurine is a physiologically important molecule. With the established understanding of N-acetyltaurine breakdown regulated by PTER, its biosynthesis remains unknown. My research focuses on this important yet unexplored part of taurine metabolism—N-acetyltaurine biosynthesis. My preliminary findings indicate that the gut microbiome can contribute to N-acetyltaurine levels. I am working to identify the specific enzymes and bacteria involved in this process. Ultimately, this research could lead to engineering gut microbiota to regulate N-acetyltaurine levels, potentially influencing overall metabolic health.