A screen for genes that control shape change in the embryo
Richard Harland, Professor
Molecular and Cell Biology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Spring 2025 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Fall 2025.
We will isolate DNAs encoding cytoskeletal regulators, describe their expression, and knock-out or add back functions to determine whether they are active in controlling cell behaviors.
Background.
Amphibian embryos have been valuable models to examine the behaviors of cells that contribute to the shape changes of the embryo. The embryos develop outside the mother, so they are accessible for experiments and observation at all stages.
We will screen for genes that are expressed in the Xenopus embryo, and focus further on genes specifically expressed in cells undergoing shape changes or rearrangements. We will focus on neural tube closure, and the movements of gastrulation- formation of the three-layered embryo with ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm, which provides the raw material for making the tadpole. Once we identify interesting activities we will test them for their function by gain and loss of function.
Role: It is a highly cooperative project, which every year lead to new and original discoveries.
Qualifications: Requirements: MCB major, Molecular Biology techniques/pipetting skills, good availability and serious commitment.
Desirable but not essential: Knowledge on Developmental Biology.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Marta Truchado, Post-Doc
Hours: 12 or more hours
Biological & Health Sciences