BSTC Lab of the Month – Neuromuscular Biology Laboratory at McMaster University
We are excited to spotlight the Integrative Neuromuscular Biology Laboratory at McMaster University, led by Dr. Vladimir Ljubicic. This lab’s research explores the molecular mechanisms that determine, maintain, and remodel neuromuscular biology in health and disease, with a particular focus on AMPK and PRMTs as key regulators of neuromuscular function and plasticity.
This month’s Basic Science Trainee Commitee (BSTC) Lab of the Month is home to an outstanding group of trainees whose projects span aging, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cancer cachexia, and metabolic dysfunction. The lab also provides valuable mentorship opportunities for undergraduate researchers and welcomes collaborations with partners across the neuromuscular research community.
PI: Vladimir Ljubicic, PhD
Professor and University Scholar
Department of Kinesiology
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON
Research interests
The Integrative Neuromuscular Biology Laboratory directed by Dr. Vladimir Ljubicic is part of the Exercise Metabolism Research Group in the Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Science, at McMaster University. The Ljubicic Lab is affiliated with the Physical Activity Centre of Excellence, as well as the Centre for Metabolism, Obesity, and Diabetes Research.
Our research investigates molecular mechanisms that determine, maintain, and remodel neuromuscular biology in health and disease. We specifically examine how physical activity and drug interventions impact skeletal muscle, the neuromuscular junction, and α-motoneurons in conditions of neuromuscular dysfunction or degeneration. We also have a particular interest in understanding the role of the enzyme AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), as well as a family of enzymes called protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs), as regulators of neuromuscular biology and plasticity.
Lab members
- Stephanie Mattina, PhD candidate
Project: Investigating muscle and α-motoneuron AMPK in neuromuscular health and disease - Magda Lesinski, PhD candidate
Project: Elucidating the roles of AMPK and PRMT4 in cancer cachexia - Cora Jornacion, MSc candidate
Project: Examining AMPK in the neuromuscular system of old mice - Ricky Hong, MSc candidate
Project: Defining the role of skeletal muscle AMPK in Duchenne muscular dystrophy - Anneliese Schall, MSc candidate
Project: Characterizing the impact of PRMTs during metabolic dysfunction - Todd Prior, Laboratory Manager
Our graduate students mentor several undergraduate thesis and research project students in Kinesiology, Biology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Health Sciences, and Neuroscience programs who significantly contribute to our progress every year.
Collaborations
We are grateful for all our outstanding collaborators, and we welcome working with and learning from new partners. Please connect with Dr. ">Ljubicic to discuss opportunities.
Recent publication
- Ng SY et al. Direct AMPK Activation Confers Mutation-Independent Therapeutic Benefit in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle. 2026 Feb;17(1):e70200.
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