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June 24, 2025
Wenxin Wu, Pharmsci graduate student (Li Lab), will be defending her PhD research thesis:
From Sample to Signal: Development of Integrated Neuropeptidomics to Study Crustacean Signaling
Abstract:
Neuropeptides are important signaling molecules that regulate a wide range of physiological and behavioral functions. In crustaceans, they influence processes such as feeding, stress response, and motor control. However, their low abundance, chemical complexity, and rapid degradation make systematic analysis difficult. This dissertation describes a comprehensive neuropeptidomics workflow developed to improve the reliability, depth, and clarity of neuropeptide profiling, with a focus on crustacean models. Improvements in sample preparation, mass spectrometry acquisition using both DDA and DIA, and spectral library construction led to better detection and reduced degradation. Mass spectrometry was also used to confirm key findings and measure biologically relevant changes. The methods described can be applied to other biological systems and support the discovery of new and condition-specific peptides. This work strengthens the foundation of neuropeptidomics and offers useful strategies for exploring peptide signaling in health and disease.
