Scientists urge European lipid research

STRASBOURG, France, June 18 (UPI) -- European scientists say a continentwide focus is needed in lipid research to help tackle such diseases as obesity, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.

A group of leading scientists said common lipids such as cholesterol are known to play an important part in the normal functioning of cells and tissues, but human cells contain thousands of other lipids that are also vital for functions that include storing energy, maintaining the structure of the cell and sending biochemical signals.

The European Science Foundation issued a report this week urging more investment in the field of lipidomics -- the term given to the identification and analysis of the full complement of lipids in cells, tissues and body fluids, together with associated molecular structures such as enzymes and genes.

The document was prepared by an international panel of experts led by Professor Gerrit van Meer of Utrecht University in the Netherlands and Professor Friedrich Spener of the University of Graz in Austria.

The scientists said the number of European researchers with expertise in lipidomics is low and that increased funding is needed to help Europe to catch up with the level of research in nations such as Japan and the United States.