31st Annual Student Research Conference
The investigation on the functions of DHP-1, DHP-2, and TBCE proteins, in developing epidermis of Caenorhabditis elegans embryos
Sonam A. Wangyal*, Megan D. Ringling, and Yu-Shiuan Hsu
Dr. Stephanie Maiden, Faculty Mentor
Past studies have shown that microtubules play a crucial role in embryonic epithelial development in Caenorhabditis elegans, yet less is known about the specific proteins which are involved in the process. Investigation of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) provides a better understanding of the functions of microtubules in development. Three MAPs of interest in C. elegans are DHP-1, DHP-2, and TBCE. DHP-1 and DHP-2 are found similar to the CRMP protein family, which is essential in the development and function of neurons. TBCE is a required cofactor protein for the folding of beta-tubulin, while enhancing the tubulin GAP activity of another cofactor protein TBCD. Our hypothesis is the individual knockdown of DHP-1, DHP-2, and TBCE, may result in body elongation defects in embryonic development, suggesting involvement with microtubules in the epithelium. Genes are knockdown with feeding RNA interference approach, while 4D DIC confocal microscopy is used to observe elongation defects.
Keywords: Elegans, Caenorhabditis, DHP, TBCE, microtubules
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 3-4
Location: GEO - SUB
Time: 3:30