2013 — 2017 |
Frand, Alison |
N/AActivity Code Description: No activity code was retrieved: click on the grant title for more information |
Function and Assembly of the Novel Mlt-10 Family of Extracellular Matrix Proteins in C. Elegans @ University of California-Los Angeles
Most animals grow by periodically shedding and rebuilding external skeletons (cuticles). However, the mechanisms by which cuticles are removed and remade have not been fully characterized in any organism. The molting cycles of roundworms are particularly interesting, because their skin is composed mostly of collagen produced by cells similar to human skin cells. Proliferation of these stem cells is coordinated with the molting cycle. This research focuses on characterization of the molecular mechanisms that orchestrate these complex events, using a combination of genetic, biochemical, cell and molecular biological, and biophysical approaches in the model roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans. Previous studies revealed a family of extracellular proteins, MLT10, that are required for proper cuticle formation and this work will follow up to uncover novel but conserved mechanisms that regulate extracellular matrix and stem cell dynamics. Similar processes are critical for development, tissue homeostasis, and wound repair; deregulation of these processes can lead to disorders of skin and connective tissue.
The anticipated scientific findings will produce new tools that will enable further studies of the role of extracellular matrix proteins in development. The activities will also educate and advance a diverse group of young scientists, including more than 120 students who will participate in an innovative and effective curriculum on scientific writing. The curriculum and related activities associated with pedagogical effort will be disseminated widely to enable faculty at other institutions to implement similar programs.
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0.915 |
2014 — 2015 |
Frand, Alison Pyle, April (co-PI) [⬀] Hallem, Elissa [⬀] Allard, Patrick Banerjee, Utpal (co-PI) [⬀] |
N/AActivity Code Description: No activity code was retrieved: click on the grant title for more information |
Mri: Acquisition of a Biosorter @ University of California-Los Angeles
Non Technical Abstract The primary objective of this project is to acquire a BioSorter (Union Biometrica) for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The BioSorter is a unique large-particle flow cytometer that rapidly sorts objects based on patterns of fluorescence or fluorescence intensity, including objects that are too large or fragile for standard flow cytometry. The BioSorter enables automated high-throughput sorting of organisms such as free-living and parasitic worms; fly embryos and larvae; and stem cells, other mammalian cells, and cell clusters. The rapid and precise sorting capabilities of the BioSorter enable screening strategies that will greatly expand the scope and impact of diverse research and education programs at UCLA. The BioSorter will be operated as a core facility on the UCLA campus. Research and training programs that will utilize the BioSorter span the fields of parasitology, neurobiology, developmental biology, biochemistry, genetics, toxicology, and stem cell biology.
Technical Abstract The BioSorter will be used by students of all levels (high school, undergraduate, and graduate) for cutting-edge research and training. Research programs enabled by the BioSorter include: studies of how human-parasitic worms locate hosts to infect; studies of how environmental toxins affect the reproductive system; studies of stem cell development and differentiation; studies of the molecular and cellular basis of molting; studies of natural variation in populations; studies of the role of stem cells in neural circuit function; studies of mammalian germline function; and studies of brain neurochemistry. Education programs enabled by the BioSorter include: introductory and advanced research training courses for undergraduate students using fruit fly genetics and development as a model system, and a summer research program for students from local high schools. We expect at least 135 undergraduate students and 12 high school students to use the BioSorter each year. Use of the BioSorter in research training courses will expose students to cutting-edge technology and greatly enhance their training experience.
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0.915 |