Luc Berthiaume

Luc Berthiaume is a Professor in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta, where he leads a research laboratory focused on protein fatty acylation. His work bridges fundamental biochemistry and clinical applications, particularly in cancer and apoptosis. He is based in the Medical Sciences Building and is a member of the Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta.

Research Interests: Dr. Berthiaume's research centers on protein fatty acylation—specifically myristoylation and palmitoylation—and its critical roles in cellular signaling, membrane targeting, protein stability, and disease. His lab investigates how these modifications regulate apoptosis, mitochondrial metabolism, and oncogenic pathways in cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia.

Recent Research Trends: His recent publications highlight the development of innovative chemical biology tools—such as bioorthogonal fatty acid analogs and click chemistry—for detecting and identifying acylated proteins both in vitro and in vivo. These methods have revolutionized the field by replacing hazardous radioactive labeling. His work increasingly connects lipid modifications to transcriptional regulation and metabolic control, with strong implications for therapeutic development.

• Scientific Awards & Recognition:
• Cover feature in Human Molecular Genetics (2014)
• Invited Commentary in Nature Chemical Biology (2013)
• Featured paper in Journal of Cell Science (2013)
• Cited in Faculty of 1000 (2006)

Advising and Funding: Dr. Berthiaume has mentored numerous graduate students and research associates, many of whom are co-authors on high-impact publications. His research has been consistently supported by major funding bodies including the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Alberta Innovates, the National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP), and private investors. He co-founded PACYLEX Pharmaceuticals to translate his discoveries into therapies, with PCLX-001 entering Phase I clinical trials in 2021 for lymphoma.

Laboratory and Collaborations: The Berthiaume Laboratory is embedded within a vibrant research ecosystem at the University of Alberta and collaborates extensively with experts in chemical biology, oncology, and cell signaling. The lab is part of the Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta, facilitating translational research and interdisciplinary innovation.