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Richard Kahn. Biochemistry.
Phone: 404-727-3561
Email: rkahn@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: My lab is primarily interested in cell regulation by GTP binding proteins. We employ a wide array of techiques, including protein purification, enzyme assays, protein structure determination (x-ray crystallography and NMR techniques), immunocytochemistry (primarily fluorescence based in mammalian cells), molecular biology, and protein expression studies in bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells.
Student Requirements: Previous courses in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics are all pluses but none are required. Previous experience in a research lab also helpful but not required.
Techniques used in this lab: see above; some combination of those listed
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Steve Potter. Biomedical Engineering.
Phone: 404 385-2989
Email: steve.potter@bme.gatech.edu
Institution: Georgia Tech-Emory
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: See http://neuro.gatech.edu for ideas about projects in our lab.
Student Requirements: Depends on project. All backgrounds considered.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) See http://neuro.gatech.edu/groups/potter/publications.html
Techniques used in this lab: Depends on project, but may include optical microscopy, multi-electrode electrophysiology, cell culture, computer programming, mechanical design, and others.
Additional Comments: http://neuro.gatech.edu/groups/potter/people.html
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Vincent Yang. Digestive Diseases.
Phone: 727-5638
Email: vyang@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: The focus of our research interest is on understanding the molecular mechanisms that control proliferation and differentiation of the intestinal epithelial cells. In particular, our group has concentrated on the roles played by a number of Kruppel-like transcription factors in regulating these two important biological processes in the gut epithelium. One factor, called Kruppel-like factor 4 or KLF4, is a negative regulator of proliferation that mediates the functions of two important tumor suppressors, APC and p53. The other, called KLF5, is pro-proliferative and mediates the activities of important proto-oncoproteins including RAS and WNT. Our hypothesis that the two KLFs function in the larger network of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes to regulate intestinal epithelial proliferation and differentiation. The knowledge derived from these studies may impact on the mechanism of gut development and tumorigenesis.
Student Requirements: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Ghaleb, A.M., Nandan, M.O., Chanchevalap, S., Dalton, W.B., Hisamuddin, I. M., and Yang, V.W. (2005) Kruppel-like factors 4 and 5: the yin and yang regulators of cellular proliferation. Cell Research 15, 92-96.
(2) Nandan, M.O., Chanchevalap, S., Dalton, W. B., and Yang, V.W. (2005)Kruppel-like factor 5 promotes mitosis by activating the cyclin B1/Cdc2 complex during oncogenic Ras-mediated transformation. FEBS Letters 579, 4757-4762.
(3) Yoon, H.S., Ghaleb, A.M., Nandan, M.O., Hisamuddin, I.M., Dalton, W.B., and Yang, V.W. (2005) Kruppel-like 4 prevents centrosome amplification following g irradiation-induced DNA damage. Oncogene 24, 4017-4025.
(4) Ouko, L., Ziegler, T. R., Gu, L. H., Eisenberg, L. M., and Yang, V. W. (2004) Wnt11 signaling promotes proliferation, transformation and migration of IEC6 intestinal epithelial cells. Journal of Biological Chemistry 279, 26707-26715.
(5) Hisamuddin, I.M., Wehbi, M., Schmotzer. B., Easley, K., Hylind, L., Giardiello, F.M., and Yang, V.W. (2005) Genetic polymorphisms of flavin monooxygenase 3 in sulindac-induced regression of colorectal adenomas in familial adenomatous polyposis. Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention 14, 2366-2369.
Techniques used in this lab: Cell culture, PCR, Northern and Western blot, immunohistochemistry, transfection, DNA plasmid work
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Linda Gooding. Microbiology and Immunolo.
Phone: 404 7275948
Email: gooding@microbio.emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: We are currently testing a hypothesis that endemic human adenoviruses cause the genomic instability that leads to childhood leukemia. Typical projects would involve testing translocations common to childhood leukemia for their effects on adenovirus replication.
Additional Project Information: We are also developing appropriate culture techniques for primary human mucosal lymphocytes and cord blood
Student Requirements: basic chemistry and biology necessary. Some previous lab work desirable
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) McNees, A., Mahr, J.A., Ornelles, D., and Gooding, L.R. Post-internalization inhibition of adenovirus gene expression and replication in human T cell lines. J. Virol. 78, 6955-6966, 2004
(2) Mahr, J.A., Boss, J., and Gooding, L.R. The adenovirus E3 promoter is sensitive to activation signals in human T cells, J Virol., 77, 1112-1119, 2003
(3) Garnett, C.T., Erdman, D., Xu, W., and Gooding, L.R. Prevalence and quantitation of species C adenovirus DNA in human mucosal lymphocytes. J Virol, 76, 10608-10616, 2002
(4) McNees, A., Garnett, C.T., and Gooding, L.R. The adenovirus E3 RID complex protects some cultured human T and B lymphocytes from Fas-induced apoptosis, J. Virol.76, 9716-9723, 2002
Techniques used in this lab: cell culture, nested PCR, real time PCR, flow cytometry
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Hyunsuk Shim. Winship Cancer Institute.
Phone: 404-778-4564
Email: hyunsuk_shim@emory.org
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: The chemokine receptor, CXCR4 is one of critical factors for cancer metastasis by interacting with its ligand, stromal cell derived factor 1 (SDF-1). SDF-1 is expressed in destinations of breast cancer metastasis, including lymph node, lung, liver, and bone marrow. CXCR4 expression is low in normal breast tissues and high in malignant tumors. We developed novel CXCR4 antagonists, which inhibit CXCR4/SDF-1 mediated invasion with high specificity. The long-term outcome that we hope to achieve is the identification of a small molecule that will attenuate tumor metastasis in-vivo while demonstrating a sufficient pharmacokinetic and toxicological profile to merit advancement into human, clinical evaluation. We will also study the specificity or cross-reactivity of our compounds against other chemokine receptors. These potent inhibitors of CXCR4 allow us to study the role of CXCR4 in cancer metastasis and other diseases.
Student Requirements: Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Liang, Z, Wu, T., Yu, X, Lou, H., Nie, S., and Shim, H. (2004) Inhibition of breast cancer metastasis via CXCR4 antagonists. Cancer Research, 64, 4302-4308.
(2) Liang, Z, Yoon, Y, Votaw, J., Goodman, M., William, L, and Shim, H. (2005) Silencing of CXCR4 blocks breast cancer metastasis. Cancer Research, 65, 967-71.
(3) Koh, A.M., Demiralp, B., Neiva, K., Hooten, J., Nohutcu, R.M., Shim, H., Datta, N.S., Taichman, R.S., McCauley, L.K. (2005) Cells of the osteoclast lineage as mediators of the anabolic actions of parathyroid hormone in bone. Endocrinology, 146(11), 1-13.
(4) Yun, C.C., Sun, H., Wang, D., Rusovici, R., Castleberry, A., Hall, R.A., and Shim, H. (2005) Cellular signaling by LPA2 in colonic epithelial cells is mediated through its interaction with NHERF2. Am. J. Physiology (Cell Physiology), 289 (1), C2-11.
Techniques used in this lab: cloning, cell culture, drug discovery, western blot analysis, HPLC,RT-PCR, etc
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James Lah. Neurology.
Phone: 404-727-3727
Email: jlah@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: Mechanisms of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Student Requirements:
Techniques used in this lab:
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Lou Ann Brown. Pediatrics.
Phone: 404-727-5739
Email: lbrow03@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Background: Alcohol abuse has significantly increased in women of childbearing age resulting in a large population of premature infants with fetal alcohol exposure. Alcohol-induced oxidant stress and damage is best described in the developing brain, however, all developing organ systems are exposed to alcohol-induced oxidative stress. We have shown that maternal alcohol abuse increased the risk of early onset sepsis in the very low birth weight premature neonate. In utero exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines increases the risk of adverse outcomes in the premature newborn such as chronic lung disease and sepsis. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) results from chronic intrauterine exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines that primes the fetal lung so that minimally injurious postnatal events provoke an exuberant pulmonary inflammatory response and potentiates lung injury.
In adults, chronic alcohol abuse depletes the antioxidant glutathione (GSH), induces chronic oxidant stress and a chronic pro-inflammatory state. This subsequently results in an exaggerated response to a second hit such as sepsis or trauma. As observed in adults, we do not believe that fetal alcohol exposure alone causes BPD. Rather, we postulate that alcohol-induced fetal GSH depletion results in a chronic pro-inflammatory state that places the very premature lung at a greater risk for injury when a second hit occurs. In animal models of in utero alcohol exposure, we are exploring fetal lung GSH depletion, chronic oxidant stress and a chronic pro-inflammatory state that subsequently delays lung maturation and increases the risk of lung injury when there is premature delivery. Furthermore, we propose that GSH precursors will attenuate that injury when given after delivery.
Student Requirements: Juniors and seniors only
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) T.W. Gauthier, X.D. Ping, F.L. Harris, M. Wong, H. Elbahesh, and L.A.S. Brown. Fetal alcohol exposure impairs alveolar macrophage functions via decreased glutathione availability. Pediatr. Res. 57: 76-81 (2005).
(2) L.A.S. Brown, F.L. Harris, X.-D. Ping and T.W. Gauthier. Chronic ethanol ingestion and the risk of acute lung injury: a role for glutathione availability? Alcohol 33: 191-197 (2004).
(3) M.H. Manar, M.R. Brown, T.W. Gauthier, and L.A.S. Brown. Association of glutathione-S-transferase P1 (GST-P1) polymorphisms with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. J. Perinatol. 24: 30-35 (2004).
(4) A. Pelaez, R.I. Bechara, P.C. Joshi, L.A.S. Brown and D.M. Guidot. Granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor treatment improves alveolar epithelial barrier function in alcoholic rat lung. Am. J. Physiol. (Lung Cell Mol. Physiol.) 286: L106-L111 (2004).
Techniques used in this lab: Fluorescent microscopy; confocal microscopy; real time PCR; western blot analysis
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Judith Fridovich-Keil. Human Genetics.
Phone: 404-727-3924
Email: jfridov@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Studies of normal galactose metabolism and the impact of impaired galactose metabolism on patients with transferase- or epimerase-deficiency galactosemia. Projects range from genetic and biochemical studies in yeast to mammalian cell studies to work with patient cells and samples. Our goals are to understand the mechanism and implications of normal galactose metabolism in eukaryotes, as well as the pathophysiology of galactosemia. Our ultimate goal is to devise novel and improved treatments for patients with this family of metabolic disorders.
Student Requirements: Applicants should be self-motivated students seriously considering a career in biological or biomedical research. Student must have at least some (classroom or laboratory) prior exposure to genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Openo, KK, JM Schulz, CA Vargas, CS Orton, MP Epstein, RE Schnur, F Scaglia, GT Berry, GS Gottesman, C Ficicioglu, AE Slonim, RJ Schroer, C Yu, V Rangel, J Keenan, K Lamance, and JL Fridovich-Keil. Epimerase-deficiency galactosemia is not a binary condition. Am J Hum Gen. In press 10/2005.
(2) Schulz, JM, KL Ross, K Malmstrom, M. Krieger, and JL Fridovich-Keil (2005). Mediators of galactose sensitivity in UDP-galactose 4'-epimerase impaired mammalian cells. J. Biol. Chem. 280(14):13493-502.
(3) Wasilenko, J., M.E. Lucas, J.B. Thoden, H.M. Holden, and J.L. Fridovich-Keil (2005). Functional characterization of the K257R and G319E hGALE alleles found in patients with ostensibly peripheral epimerase deficiency galactosemia. Molecular Genetics and Metabolism 84(1):32-8.
(4) Henderson, J.M., A. Watson, R. Sanders, J.B. Thoden, H.M. Holden, and J.L. Fridovich-Keil (2004) Determinants of Function and Substrate Specificity in Human UDP-Galactose 4-Epimerase. J Biol Chem 279(31):32796-803.
(5) Mendelsohn, B.A., C.A. Vargas, A-M. Li, A. Watson, K. Riehman, and J.L. Fridovich-Keil (2003). Genetic and biochemical interactions between SCP160 and EAP1 in yeast. Nucleic Acids Research. 31(20):5838-47
Techniques used in this lab: modern molecular biology, recombinant DNA, yeast genetic and biochemical manipulations, enzyme assays
Additional Comments: Flower in the Crannied Wall
by Lord Alfred Tennyson
(1809-1892)
Flower in the crannied wall,
I pluck you out of the crannies,
I hold you here, root and all, in my hand,
Little flower -but if I could understand
What you are, root and all, and all in all,
I should know what God and man is.
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Samuel Dudley. Medicine/Cardiology.
Phone: 404-329-4626
Email: sdudley@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Investigating the role of oxidative stress on sudden death risk using mice, pigs, or humans.
Additional Project Information: Investigating a new hypothesis about the role of oxidative stress in causing diastolic heart failure in mice or humans.
Student Requirements: No previous experience is required. A facility with biology, chemistry, and physics is desirable.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) DUDLEY, Jr., S.C., N.E. HOCH, L.A. McCANN, C.HONEYCUTT, L.DIAMANDOPOULOS, T. FUKAI, D.G. HARRISON, S.I. DIKALOV, J. LANGBERG. Atrial Fibrillation Increases Production of Superoxide by the Left Atrium and Left Atrial Appendage: Role of the NADPH and Xanthine Oxidases. (2005). Circulation vol. 112, 1266-1273.
(2) 14. XIAO, H.D., S. FUCHS, D.J. CAMPBELL, W. LEWIS, S.C. DUDLEY, Jr., V.S. KASI, B.D. HOIT, G. KESHELAVA, H. ZHAO, M.R. CAMPECCHI, K.E. BERNSTEIN. Mice with cardiac Restricted Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) have Atrial Enlargement, Cardiac Arrhythmia and Sudden Death. 2004. Am. J. Pathol. 165:1019-1032.
Techniques used in this lab: Electrophysiology, animal handling and breeding, proteomics, molecular biology, electrocardiography (ECG), electron spin resonance, human trials.
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Arthur English. Cell Biology.
Phone: 404-727-6250
Email: art@cellbio.emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: After peripheral nerve injury, axons are capable of regeneration but restoration of function is universally poor. This is often blamed on a progressive loss of the ability of cells in the distal stumps of injured nerves to promote regeneration. We have discovered that electrical stimulation or exercise will stimulate the growth of regenerating axons in peripheral nerves in a manner that does not depend on cells in their environment. Using transgenic mice we will investigate whether these methods can be used to promote axon regeneration when the repair of the damaged nerve is delayed.
Additional Project Information: Electrical stimulation and treadmill exercise has been shown to increase the growth of regenerating axons. It is speculated that these methods exert their effects by enhancing activity in spinal neural networks. Using electrophysiological recordings from intact rats, we will study the magnitude of simple spinal reflexes after electrical stimulation or/and treadmill exercise.
Student Requirements: The most successful students are those who are rising seniors. Younger students who are rising juniors who are especailly highly motivated also work well. Background in biology and chamistry is a must.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Groves, ML., McKeon, R., Werner, E., Nagarsheth, M., Meador, W., English, A.W., Axon regeneration in peripheral nerves is enhanced by proteoglycan degradation. Exp. Neurol. 195: 278-292, 2005.
(2) English, A.W., Meador, W., Carrasco, D.I., Neurotrophin 4/5 is required for the early growth of regenerating axons in peripheral nerves. Eur J Neurosci, 21: 26242634, 2005.
(3) English, A.W., Enhancing axon regeneration in peripheral nerves also increases functionally inappropriate reinnervation of targets. J. Comp. Neurol. 490: 427-441, 2005.
(4) English, A.W., Schwartz, G., Meador, W., Sabatier, M.J., and Amanda Mulligan Electrical stimulation promotes peripheral axon regeneration by enhanced neuronal neurotrophin signaling. J. Neurobiol. In Press, 2007.
(5) Pol-Rodriguez, M.M., Schwartz, G. and English, Arthur W. Post-Translational Phosphorylation of the Slow/b Myosin Heavy Chain Isoform in Adult Rabbit Masseter Muscle. J. Mus. Res. Cell Motil. 22: 513-519, 2002.
Techniques used in this lab: survival surgery, confocal microscopy, electromyography
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Michael Koval. Pulmonary Medicine.
Phone: 404-712-2976
Email: mhkoval@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: We use a combination of molecular, cell biology and physiological techniques to study how cells regulate intercellular communication pathways and roles for these pathways in health and disease. Research in my lab falls into three major categories: 1) Trafficking and assembly of membrane proteins at cell junctions, 2) Roles for intercellular communication in lung function and injury, 3) Interplay between cell adhesion and endocytosis
Additional Project Information: For more information and references please see: http://userwww.service.emory.edu/~mhkoval/
Student Requirements: Completion of first year chemistry preferred. Also, an interest in biomedical research and the ability to work independently are encouraged. Students are required to participate in general laboratory maintenance in addition to work on their project.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Daugherty, B.L., et al., Regulation of heterotypic claudin compatibility.
J Biol Chem. 282:30005-30013. (2007).
(2) Patel A.S., et al. Paracrine stimulation of surfactant secretion by extracellular ATP in response to mechanical deformation. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 289:L489-96. (2005).
(3) Daugherty, B.L., et al., Developmental regulation of claudin localization by fetal alveolar epithelial cells. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 287:L1266-73 (2004).
(4) Abraham V., et al. Heterocellular gap junctional communication between alveolar epithelial cells. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 280:L1085-93 (2001).
(5) Abraham V., et al. Phenotypic control of gap junctional communication by cultured alveolar epithelial cells. Am J Physiol. 276:L825-34 (1999).
Techniques used in this lab: Molecular biological approaches to create chimeric and mutant junction proteins to identify sorting and assembly motifs, Development of cultured cell models which mimic in vivo cell-cell interactions using established cell lines and primary lung epithelial cells, Quantitative fluorescence microscopy to examine protein expression, membrane trafficking and cell-cell communication
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Jorg Goronzy. Lowance Center.
Phone: 404-7277325
Email: jgoronz@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: We are using gene expression arraying of naive and memory T cell responses to identify genes of interest that may be causatively involved in declining immune responses with age. Changes in gene expression is confirmed in population-based studies and functional implications of the over- or underexpression is studied in in vitro assays.
Student Requirements: Background in immunology would be advantageous.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) J Immunol. 2005 Jun 1;174(11):7446-52.
The influence of age on T cell generation and TCR diversity.
Naylor K, Li G, Vallejo AN, Lee WW, Koetz K, Bryl E, Witkowski J, Fulbright J, Weyand CM, Goronzy JJ.
(2) J. Biol. Chem., Vol. 280, Issue 25, 24277-24285, June 24, 2005
Distinct Transcriptional Control Mechanisms of Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptors in Natural Killer (NK) and in T Cells*
Jing Xu, Abbe N. Vallejo?, Yong Jiang?, Cornelia M. Weyand{ddagger}, and Jorg J. Goronzy{ddagger}
(3) Uncoupling of T Cell Effector Functions by Inhibitory Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptors
Running Head: Inhibitory KIRs and T cells
Gabriella Henel1, 2 (a,b,c,d)
Karnail Singh1 (b,c)
Dapeng Cui1 (b,c)
Sergey Pryshchep1 (b)
Won-Woo Lee1 (b)
Cornelia M. Weyand1 (a,c)
Jorg J. Goronzy1 (a,c,d)
Blood 2006, epub ahead of publication
Techniques used in this lab:
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Jeff Boatright. Ophthalmology.
Phone: 404 778-4113
Email: jboatri@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: Dr. Boatright is a graduate of Brown University (Sc.B. in Neural Sciences and Experimental Psychology) and Emory University (Ph.D. in Pharmacology and the Neurosciences Training Program). He joined the faculty of the Department of Ophthalmology in 1999, conducting research on the regulation of retinal gene expression funded by an independent R01 grant from the National Institutes of Health National Eye Institute (NIH NEI). This research expanded into using endogenous DNA repair mechanisms treat genetic mutations that lead to blindness, work also funded by an independent NEI R01. In a separate project, Dr. Boatright uses in vivo pharmacological approaches to explore the effects of atypical, endogenous compounds on animal models of retinal degeneration and glaucoma. This work is funded by the Foundation Fighting Blindness, NIH National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NIH NCCAM), and a Merit Award from the Veterans Administration.
Additional Project Information: Dr. Boatright is founding and current Editor-in-Chief of Molecular Vision, a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the dissemination of research results in molecular biology, cell biology, and the genetics of the visual system. The journal is rated second in a field of 14 competing journals and is routinely used as an Open Access exemplar by the National Library of Medicine and The National Institutes of Health Library. The journal is supported by Knights Templar and through initiatives generated in the Department of Ophthalmology.
Student Requirements: We can start from scratch.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab:
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Kathy Griendling. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-3364
Email: kgriend@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Our laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate the function of vascular smooth muscle cells, the cells responsible for contraction of the vessel wall and thus regulation of blood pressure. ROS mediate smooth muscle cell differentiation, migration and proliferation, in part by regulating signaling molecules compartmentalized within the cell. We use both cell culture and animal models to test the role of ROS in vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, restenosis, and diabetic vasculopathy.
Student Requirements: Basic biology and chemistry necessary. Biochemistry strongly suggested.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Dikalova A, Lassegue B, Clempus R, Cheng G, McCoy J, Dikalov S, San Martin A, Lyle A, Weber DS, Weiss D, Taylor WR, Schmidt HHHW, Owens GK, Lambeth JD, Griendling KK. Nox1 overexpression potentiates angiotensin II-induced hypertension and vascular smooth muscle hypertrophy in transgenic mice. Circulation 2005;96:269-271.
(2) Taniyama Y, Hitomi H, Shah A, Alexander RW, Griendling KK. Mechanisms of reactive oxygen species-dependent downregulation of IRS-1 by angiotensin II. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2005;25:1142-1147.
(3) Weber DS, Rocic P, Mellis AM, Laude K, Lyle AN, Harrison DG, Griendling KK. Angiotensin II-induced hypertrophy is potentiated in mice overexpressing p22phox in vascular smooth muscle. Am J PhysiolHeart & Circ Physiol 2005; 288:H37-42.
(4) Taniyama Y, Ushio-Fukai M, Rocic P, Kingsley MJ, Hitomi H, Pfahnl C, Weber DS, Alexander RW, Griendling KK. Role of p38MAPK and MAPKAPK-2 in angiotensin II-induced Akt activation in vascular smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol-Cell Physiology 2004;287:C494-499.
(5) Clempus RE, Sorescu D, Dikalova AE, Pounkova L, Jo P, Lass¿gue B, Griendling KK. Nox4 is required for maintenance of the differentiated vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2007;27:42-48.
Techniques used in this lab: cell culture
Western analysis
PCR
Blood pressure measurement
Histology
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Douglas Falls. Cell Biology.
Phone: 404-727-0520
Email: dfalls@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: Neurogenesis (more later)
Additional Project Information: Synaptogenisis (more later)
Student Requirements: any level (more later)
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Falls DL (2003) Neuregulins: functions, forms, and signaling strategies. Exp Cell Res 284:14-30.
(2) Falls DL (2003) Neuregulins and the neuromuscular system: 10 years of answers and questions. J Neurocytol 32:619-647.
(3) Coskun V, Falls DL, Lane R, Czirok A, Luskin MB (in preparation 2005) Subventricular zone neuronal progenitors undergo multiple divisions and retract their processes prior to each cytokinesis.
(4) Bonsall JM, Falls DL, Luskin MB (in preparation) Extracellular matrix and/or cell surface associated molecules restrict neuronal progenitors to the rostral migratory stream.
Techniques used in this lab:
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Nandini Dey. hematology/medical oncol..
Phone: 404-778-3037
Email: ndey@emory.edu
Institution: WCI; Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Studying the signal-biology in the tumorogenesis of triple negative breast cancer.
Additional Project Information: Studying the role of Ras-P21 signal in the tumorogenesis of glioma.
Student Requirements: Undergraduate Students
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab: Cell culture, Western blot,DNA purification, Tansient transfection,
Growth curve,confocal and real time video microscopy,Immunofluorescence.
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Pradip De. Hemat & ,Medical Oncol..
Phone: 4047783037
Email: pde@emory.edu
Institution: WCI; Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Studying the signal-biology in the tumorogenesis of hormone positive breast cancer.
Additional Project Information: Studying the signal-biology in the tumorogenesis of HER2 over expressed breast cancer.
Student Requirements: Undergraduate
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab: Cell culture, Integrin directed cell movement, Kinase and GTP-ase assay,Hypoxia, RT-PCR.
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Shanthi Sitaraman. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-2430
Email: ssitar2@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Characterization of the role of metalloproteinases in inflammatory bowel disease. We have shown that metalloproteinases cause worsening of colitis. The project will involve studying the effect of metalloproteinases in vitro intestinal cell lines using inflammatory, wound healing as read-out assays.
Additional Project Information: Elucidate the regulation and role of adenosine receptor in inflammatory bowel disease
Student Requirements: Previous laboratory experience preferred but not necessary
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Castaneda et. al. Targeted deletion of metalloproteinase attenuates colitis. Gastroenterology 2005
Techniques used in this lab: Western blot, zymography, cloning, PCR, bacterial assays, immunohistochemistry
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June Scott. Microbiology.
Phone: 404-727-0402
Email: scott@Microbio.emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Regulation of gene expression in Streptococcus pyogenes
Additional Project Information: Mechanism of attachment of proteins to the surface of Streptococcus pyogenes
Student Requirements: Some knowledge of molecular biology from coursework; some lab experience using micropipettes
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) See http://www.microbiology.emory.edu/scott/index.htm
Techniques used in this lab:
Additional Comments: We have had undergraduates in the lab for many years. Several have co-authored papers. Those going to grad school find their experience in our lab helps them get accepted by the school of their choice and receive fellowships.
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Paul Doetsch. Biochemistry.
Phone: 404-727-0409
Email: medpwd@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Project would address some aspects of the interconnections between DNA repair and DNA damage tolerance systems in the management of DNA damage using a simple eukaryotic model system (yeast) in order to understand this process in higher organisms (i.e. humans) and its relationship to the development of cancer. Techniques would include genetic, biochmical and molecular biological experimental strategies.
Additional Project Information: We are also using the yeast model system and its genetic and biochemical dissectability to elucidate the mechanisms of action of anticancer drugs and to use isogenic strains of yeast as a potential rapid, inexpensive drug screening tool.
Student Requirements: General science background in biology or chemistry. Undergraduate genetics would be very useful but not absolute requirement.. Undergraduate biochemistry would be useful but not required.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Evert BA, Salmon TB, Song B, Liu JJ, Siede W, Doetsch PW. (2004) Spontaneous DNA Damage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Elicits Phenotypic Properties Similar to Cancer Cells. J. Biol. Chem. 279: 22585-22594.
(2) Beljanski V, Marzilli L, Doetsch PW. (2004) DNA Damage Processing Pathways Involved in the Eukaryotic Cellular Response to Anticancer DNA Crosslinking Agents. Mol. Pharm. 65:1496-1506
(3) Doudican NA, Song B, Shadel GS, Doetsch PW. (2005) Oxidative DNA Damage Causes Mitochondrial Genetic Instability in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Mol. Cell Biol. 25: 5196-5204.
(4) Salmon TB, Evert BA, Song B, Doetsch PW. (2004) Biological Consequences of Oxidative Stress-Induced DNA Damage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Nucleic Acids Res. 32: 3712-3723.
(5) O'Rourke T, Doudican NA, Zhang H, Eaton JS, Doetsch PW, Shadel GS. (2005) Differential Involvement of the Related DNA Helicases Piflp and Rrm3p in mt DNA Point Mutagenesis and Stability. Gene 354: 86-92.
Techniques used in this lab: Yeast genetic manipulatiions including strain construction, mutagenesis and recombination assays, and biochemical techniques such as protein purificatiion and Western blot analysis. Cell biological techniques such as fluorescence microscopy and cell sorting and analysis are also likely to be used.
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Claire-Anne Gutekunst. Neurosurgery.
Phone: 404-727-1812
Email: cguteku@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Studies of stigmoid bodies, cytoplasmic neuronal structures of unknown function.
Student Requirements: some knowlegde of biology
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab:
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iain Shepherd. Biology.
Phone: 404-727-2632
Email: ishephe@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Investigating the in vivo function of zebrafish orthologues of known Hirschsprung disease causing genes.
The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the largest most complicated subdivision of the peripheral nervous system and is completely derived from neural crest stem cells (NCSC). My lab is interested in determining what genes are involved in the specification of the NCSC that form the ENS. We are also interested in determining what molecules are involved patterning the migration of NCSC in the intestine and if these same molecules are involved in patterning the axonal projections of the differentiated ENS neurons in the intestine. These studies are of clinical importance due to pediatric conditions that perturb the normal development of the ENS such as Hirschsprung Disease (HSCR).
Taking advantage of the zebrafish model system we are investigating how known HSCR linked genes, such as Sip1, cause their ENS phenotypes. We have previously shown that the neurotrophic factor GDNF and its receptor complex are absolutely required for normal ENS development in zebrafish as in mouse and human. Using similar techniques we are investigating the function of other known HSCR genes in zebrafish ENS development. These studies are investigating the many unanswered questions as how these known HSCR genes actually cause their ENS phenotypes when mutated.
A student undertaking this type of project would typically carry out a detailed expression analysis of a HSCR associated gene by RT-PCR and wholemount in situ hybridization. This part of the project would involve a significant amount of microscope work. A student would also be involved in perturbing the gene's function in vivo by microinjection of different molecular reagents.
Additional Project Information: Identification and characterization of different zebrafish enteric nervous system (ENS) neuronal subtypes.
The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the largest most complicated subdivision of the peripheral nervous system and is completely derived from neural crest stem cells (NCSC). My lab is interested in determining what genes are involved in the specification of the NCSC that form the ENS. We are also interested in determining what molecules are involved patterning the migration of NCSC in the intestine and if these same molecules are involved in patterning the axonal projections of the differentiated ENS neurons in the intestine. These studies are of clinical importance due to pediatric conditions that perturb the normal development of the ENS such as Hirschsprung Disease (HSCR).
To aid in the analysis of zebrafish ENS mutant we are interested in identifying different ENS neuronal subtypes. A summer student on this project would screen antibodies to identify ones that recognize subsets of zebrafish ENS neurons. After identifying zebrafish cross-reacting antibodies a student would undertake a detail characterization of the spatial and temporal expression pattern of these markers in the developing ENS. The project will involve significant amounts of microscope work.
Student Requirements: Studenst should be Juniors or Seniors. Students need to have completed a genetics course. Preference will be given to those that have taken a Developmental BIology course.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Jacy Pietsch, Brett Jakaitis, Derek Stensby, Sarah Dohle, William Talbot, David W. Raible, and Iain T. Shepherd
(2) Shepherd, I. T., Pietsch, J., Elworthy, S., Kelsh, R. N. and Raible, D. W. (2004). Roles for GFR{alpha}1 receptors in zebrafish enteric nervous system development. Development 131, 241-249.
(3) Shepherd, I. T., Beattie, C. E. and Raible, D. W. (2001). Functional analysis of zebrafish GDNF. Dev Biol 231, 420-35.
(4) Elworthy, S., Pinto, J. P., Pettifer, A., Cancela, M. L. and Kelsh, R. N. (2005). Phox2b function in the enteric nervous system is conserved in zebrafish and is sox10-dependent. Mech Dev 122, 659-69
(5) Amiel, J. and Lyonnet, S. (2001). Hirschsprung disease, associated syndromes, and genetics: a review. J Med Genet 38, 729-39.
Techniques used in this lab:
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Subhabrata Sanyal. Cell Biology.
Phone: 404-727-3758
Email: ssanya2@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: The fundamental goal of the laboratory is to understand molecular and cellular changes that underlie learning and memory. We use the fruit fly, Drosophila as a model system to investigate signaling networks that operate in neurons during long-term neural plasticity. Essentially, long-term changes require synthesis of new proteins either through translation of pre-existing mRNA at synaptic sites or through activation of transcription. We have established that conserved signaling cascades such as those mediated by cAMP, PKA and MAPK operate in our model system to cause long-term change. These signaling cascades finally impinge on transcription factors, such as AP1 and CREB to drive expression of plasticity genes . Among several broad questions in the field that interest us are studying signaling cross-talk during plasticity and the identification and functional validation of target genes. A unifying aim is to ascertain how these genes regulate learning and memory in intact organisms, thus uncovering conserved principles of learning across species.
The project involves a screen to isolate targets of AP1 activation in neurons using a powerful forward genetic approach. We will utilize the fact that expression of a dominant negative Fos transgene in the eye causes rough and reduced adult eyes. That this phenotype is due to perturbation of endogenous AP1 activity is shown by rescuing this phenotype by co-expressing wild type AP1. We plan to use this background in a classical modifier screen by assaying a collection of mutant lines in this background. A downstream effector or an upstream activator can potentially alter the eye phenotype observed in Fbz animals. This is a powerful yet easy screen and transposon tagging makes gene identification simple and fast. Finally, since there is an observable AP1 phenotype at the neuromuscular synapse, future target validation will be straightforward.
Student Requirements: Juniors and Seniors only, course in genetics favored.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Sanyal S, Sandstrom DJ, Hoeffer CA, Ramaswami M.
AP-1 functions upstream of CREB to control synaptic plasticity in Drosophila.
Nature. 2002 Apr 25;416(6883):870-4.
(2) Hoeffer CA, Sanyal S, Ramaswami M.
Acute induction of conserved synaptic signaling pathways in Drosophila
melanogaster.
J Neurosci. 2003 Jul 16;23(15):6362-72. Erratum in: J Neurosci. 2003 Aug
27;23(21):7966.
(3) Sanyal S, Narayanan R, Consoulas C, Ramaswami M.
Evidence for cell autonomous AP1 function in regulation of Drosophila
motor-neuron plasticity.
BMC Neurosci. 2003 Sep 11;4:20.
(4) Sanyal S, Consoulas C, Kuromi H, Basole A, Mukai L, Kidokoro Y, Krishnan KS,
Ramaswami M.
Analysis of conditional paralytic mutants in Drosophila sarco-endoplasmic
reticulum calcium ATPase reveals novel mechanisms for regulating membrane
excitability.
Genetics. 2005 Feb;169(2):737-50. Epub 2004 Nov 1.
Techniques used in this lab: Fly genetics, molecular biology (cloning, RNA in situ etc.), immunohistochemistry, confocal imaging
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Keith Berland. Physics.
Phone: 404 712 9061
Email: kberland@physics.emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: A wide variety of undergraduate research opportunities are available in the biophotonics lab, ranging from the development of novel optical instrumentation to the application of high-sensitivity fluorescence measurements to investigate protein dynamics and interactions in living cells. Many of our research projects are highly interdisciplinary, and appropriate for students interested in physics, biophysics, biochemistry, and even cell biology. Students interested in instrumentation can participate in designing and building new optical devices, or in writing software for instrument control and data analysis. Interested students should contact the PI about specific current opportunities.
Student Requirements: Preferable to have a strong math background and or computer programming skills, but not specifically required. Molecular biology skills are also useful.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Observation Volumes and Gamma Factors in Two-Photon Fluctuation Spectroscopy. Biophysical Journal. Vol. 89, 2077-2090
(2) Characterizing Observation Volumes and the Role of Photophysical Dynamics in One-Photon Fluorescence Fluctuation Spectroscopy. Journal of Biomedical Optics Vol 10(4). 044015, 1-9
(3) Saturation Modified Point Spread Functions in Two-Photon Microscopy. Microscopy Research and Technique. Vol. 64, 135-141.
(4) High Sensitivity Detection of Specific DNA Molecules Using Dual-Color Two-Photon Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy. Journal of Biotechnology. Vol. 108, 127-136.
(5) Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy: A New Tool for Quantification of Molecular Interactions , Protein-Protein Interactions: Methods and Protocols (ed. H. Fu), Humana Press. Pp. 383-397.
Techniques used in this lab: Some reserach tools you may learn about and use in the lab include: Fluorescence Microscopy, Fluctuation Spectroscopy, Laser Physics, Two-photon microscopy, Nuclear Localization Signal Biophysics, Protein Conjugation, Amyloid Peptide Self-assembly, Biophysics of the Intracellular Environment
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David Pallas. Biochemistry/WCI.
Phone: 404-727-5620
Email: dpallas@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: PP2A is an important phosphatase involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, of apoptosis, and of neuronal function. It has been implicated in both cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. An example of a project an undergraduate could carry out would be to investigate the mechanism of regulation of PP2A by methylation, phosphorylation, etc. Approaches could include shRNA knockdown of enzymes that regulate PP2A, cell biological approaches using time-lapse microscopy, immunological and biochemical monotoring of PP2A's modification and activity, and a variety of other possible genetic, cell biological, or biochemical approaches.
Student Requirements: Juniors and seniors only, unless there are exceptional circumstances where the student has taken a variety of college level biochemistry and related courses.
Techniques used in this lab:
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Dipali Sharma. Winship Cancer Institute.
Phone: 404-778-3265
Email: dsharma@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Selective estrogen receptor modulators, or SERMs, are a class of compounds that can act as estrogen receptor (ER) agonists in some tissues while acting as ER antagonists in others. SERMs are being evaluated and used to treat and prevent such diseases as breast cancer, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. The biochemical mechanisms underlying the tissue selectivity of SERMs, however, remain largely unknown. During past couple of years, several laboratories have identified many important co-regulatory molecules that play a central role in mediating the transcriptional activity of many nuclear receptors including ER. Our hypothesis is that the differential expression and interaction of these molecules accounts in part for the tissue-specific selectivity of selective ER modulators, such as tamoxifen and raloxifene.
Also, a major focus of our studies is directed towards understanding, at the cellular and molecular levels, the factors conferring estrogen-independence and antiestrogen resistance and those responsible for affecting estrogen responsiveness. Tamoxifen is the most common endocrine agent used at all stages of breast cancer. ER ? status has been used to identify breast cancer patients who are likely to respond to tamoxifen, but resistance nonetheless occurs in almost 50% of treated ER? positive breast cancer patients. We believe that this resistance could be because of dysregulation of ER interacting co regulatory proteins in breast cancer.
Student Requirements: Cell biology, Molecular biology, Biochemistry
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab: Cloning, mutagenesis, electrophoresis, transfection, Immunoprecipitaion, ChiP, Methylation Specific PCR, PCR, RT-PCR etc
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Nael McCarty. Pediatrics.
Phone: 727-3654
Email: namccar@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Our lab has identified a peptide toxin inhibitor of CFTR, the chloride channel protein defective in Cystic Fibrosis. The summer project would entail the production of mutant forms of this toxin, which we call GaTx1, and performance of electrophysiological experiments to test the efficacy of inhibition by the mutant toxins. Students will learn: molecular biology, recombinant protein production, electrophysiology.
Student Requirements: Rising junior at least, having completed basic biology courses and had some wet lab experience.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) 25) Fuller, M.D., C.H. Thompson, Z.-R. Zhang, C. Freeman, B. Sarkadi, G. Szakacs, D. McMaster, R.J. French, J. Pohl, J. Kubanek, and N.A. McCarty (2007) State-dependent inhibition of CFTR chloride channels by a novel peptide toxin. J. Biol. Chem. 282:37545-37555.
(2) 23) Fuller, M.D., Z.-R. Zhang, G. Cui, and N.A. McCarty (2005) The block of CFTR by scorpion venom is state-dependent. Biophys. J. 89: 3960-3975.
(3) 22) Thompson, C.H., D.M. Fields, Olivetti, P.R., M.D. Fuller, Z.-R. Zhang, and N.A. McCarty (2005) Inhibition of ClC-2 Cl- channels by a peptide component of scorpion venom. J. Membr. Biol. 208: 65-76.
(4) 1) Thompson, C.H., P.R. Olivetti, M.D. Fuller, C.S. Freeman, D. McMaster, R.F. French, J. Pohl, J. Kubanek, and N.A. McCarty. Isolation of a peptide toxin inhibitor of ClC-2 voltage-gated chloride channels. (submitted)
Techniques used in this lab: Molecular biology (mutagenesis, sequencing, plasmid manipulation); recombinant protein production (biochemistry, HPLC); electrophysiology (patch-clamp)
Additional Comments: News release on this project: http://gtresearchnews.gatech.edu/reshor/rh-ws08/venom.pdf
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Gary Bassell. Cell Biology/Neurology.
Phone: 404-727-3772
Email: gbassel@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: The objective of the project is to use cell and molecular biological methods to investigate defects in the development of nerve cells in a mouse model of an inherited neurological disease. The student will learn methods in: nerve tissue processing, nerve cell culture, immunocytochemistry and DNA/RNA analysis. At the end of the project, it is expected that the student will have analyzed for a possible impairments in the protein and mRNA composition of specific nerve and synapse populations. Throughout the project, the student will receive training in the required methods from a PhD neuroscientist. The student will also have opportunities to interact with graduate and undergraduate students.
Student Requirements: rising juniors and seniors only
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Zhang et al. 2001. Neurotrophin induced transport. Neuron. 31.261-275.
(2) Zhang et al. 2003. Active transport of SMN. Journal of Neuroscience. 23. 6627-6637.
(3) Antar et al. 2004. Metabotropic glutamate receptor activation. Journal of Neuroscience.24.2648-2655
(4) Bassell and Kelic. 2004. Binding proteins for mRNA localization. Curr Opin Neurobiol.14.574-581.
(5) Antar and Bassell. 2003. Sunrise at the Synapse. Neuron. 37.555-558.
Techniques used in this lab: nerve tissue processing, cell culture, gel electrophoresis, PCR, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy
Additional Comments: Dr. Bassell has a long standing history of mentorship in undergraduate research.
You will learn a lot and also have fun in the process!
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Maksym Yezhelyev. Winship Cancer Institute.
Phone: 404-778-5458
Email: myezhel@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Development of Nanoparticle-siRNA Complexes for Anti-Tumor Gene Therapy
Student Requirements: general science course completion, previous lab experience may be helpful but not necessary
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Simultaneous and Quantitative Detection of Multiple Biomarkers in Human Breast Cancers Using Semiconductor Multicolor Quantum Dots
Maksym V. Yezhelyev, Ahmad Al-Hajj, Tonqrui Liu, Ashwan Narayana, Tj Philip, Namita Jayaprakash, Revaz Machaidze and Ruth M. ORegan
Winship Cancer International Seminar, Atlanta, 2006
(2) Optimization of Quantitative Analysis of Multicolor QDs-based Biomolecular Profiling of Tumor.
Ashwan Narayana, Maksym Yezhelyev, Xiaohu Gao, Ahmed Al-Hajj, Tonqrui Liu, Tiji Philip, Shuming Nie, Ruth ORegan
AACR, 2007 Los Angeles, CA
(3) Rapamycin Enhances Cytotoxic Effect of Doxorubicin in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells.
Yezhelyev, M., Jayaprakash, N., Machaidze, R., Philip, T., Egnatashvili, V., Kooby, D.
Techniques used in this lab: SiRNA transfection, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, cell culturing, cell apoptosis, proliferation and cytotoxic assays
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William Kelly. Biology.
Phone: 7-6461
Email: bkelly@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Meiosis is what defines sexual reproduction and contributes to genetic diversity as well as generates the haploid gametes. Another role of meiosis is genome surveillance and protections: significant differences between the genomes are not tolerated and can lead to sterility, as is seen in cross-species hybrids. We have identified a process involved in this surveillance, called meiotic silencing, which recognizes improperly aligned or matched chromosomes and represses expression of genes from these regions. We are using the nematode C. elegans to determine the underlying mechanisms of this process.
Student Requirements: Completed undergraduate intro biology course as a minimum, some exposure to genetics
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Whittle CM, McClinic KN, Ercan S, Zhang X, Green RD, Kelly WG, Lieb JD. 2008. The genomic distribution and function of histone variant HTZ-1 during C. elegans embryogenesis. PLoS Genet. 4(9):e1000187.
(2) Checchi, P.M., and W. G. Kelly. 2006. emb-4 is a Conserved Gene Required for Germline-Specific Chromatin Remodeling during Caenorhabditis elegans Embryogenesis. Genetics 174:1895-1906.
(3) Bean, C.J., Schaner, C.E., and W.G. Kelly. 2004. "Meiotic Pairing and Imprinted X Chromatin Assembly in C. elegans". Nature Genet., 36(1)100-5.
(4) Schaner, C.E., Deshpande, G., Schedl, P., and Kelly, W.G. 2003. A conserved chromatin architecture marks and maintains the restricted germ cell lineage in worms and flies. Dev. Cell 5:1-20.
Techniques used in this lab: bacterial cloning, PCR/RT-PCR, microscopy, immunofluorescence, animal culture, other molecular techniques
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Neeraj Saxena. Medicine/Digestive Dis..
Phone: 4047275623
Email: nksaxen@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Current research project focus on elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying links between obesity, adipocytokines and carcinogenesis. Specifically, to understand the suppressive role of Adiponectin in the Leptin induced growth and metastasis of human hepatocellular carcinoma.
Student Requirements: junior or senior with biology background
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Neeraj K. Saxena, LaTonia Taliaferro Smith, Brandi Brandon, Frank A. Anania and Dipali Sharma (2008). Bidirectional cross talk between leptin and IGF-1 signaling promotes invasion and migration of triple-negative breast cancer cells via transactivation of EGFR. Cancer Research. 2008, (68): 9712-9722.
(2) Neeraj K. Saxena, Paula M. Vertino, Frank A. Anania and Dipali Sharma (2007). Leptin induced growth stimulation of breast cancer cells involves recruitment of histone acetyltransferases and mediator complex to cyclin D1 promoter via activation of Stat3. The Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2007, 282(18): 13316-13325.
8. Neeraj K. Saxena, Paula M. Vertino, Frank A. Anania and Dipali Sharma (2007). Leptin
induced growth stimulation of breast cancer cells involves recruitment of histone acetyltransferases and mediator complex to cyclin D1 promoter via activation of Stat3. The Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2007, 282(18): 13316-13325.
(3) Neeraj K. Saxena, Dipali Sharma, Songbai Lin, Xiaokun Ding, Didier Merlin and Frank A. Anania. (2007). Concomitant activation of the JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT and ERK signaling is involved in leptin mediated promotion of invasion and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Research. 2007, 67(6): 2497-2507.
(4) Songbai S. Lin, Xiaokun Ding, Neeraj K. Saxena, Lance L. Stein, and Frank A. Anania. (2006) Leptin increases Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase I (TIMP-1) gene expression by a dual Sp1/STAT3 mechanism. Molecular Endocrinology. 2006, 20(12): 3376-3388.
(5) Xiaokun Ding, Neeraj K. Saxena, Songbai lin, Amin Xu, Shanthi Srinivasan, and Frank A. Anania (2005). The role of leptin and adiponectin: a novel paradigm in adipocytokine regulation of liver fibrosis and stellate cell biology. American Journal of Pathology. 2005 June; 166(6): 1655-1669.
Techniques used in this lab: Cell culture, Transfection, Westren-blot, Cloning, plasmid-bacterial work, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR,
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Gregg Orloff. none.
Phone: 404-727-0308
Email: gorloff@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: CancerQuest (http://www.cancerquest.org) is an award-winning cancer education project designed to educate and empower cancer patients, caregivers, students and the general public.
We produce content, videos, animations, games, posters and other educational tools.
Students, depending on their interest and skills, could be involved in all aspects of the program including researching, science writing, video creating and editing, graphics, programming, etc.
Student Requirements: Some Biology background and an interest in education/outreach. Computer skills are not necessary but the student must have the desire to learn new programs.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Breast Cancer: A Patient's Journey (DVD)
(2) COMPASS: Breast Cancer Edition (DVD)
(3) Gastrostomy Tubes (DVD)
Techniques used in this lab: Science writing, video editing, Flash, HTML (some), Web programming (if interested).
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Byeongwoon Song. Pediatrics.
Phone: 404-727-1746
Email: bsong4@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: We are interested in the cellular functions and potential antiviral activities of the tripartite motif (TRIM) family proteins.
The TRIM proteins contain a RING finger domain, one or two B-box domains, and coiled coil domain, and the RBCC structure is followed by a variety of C-terminal domains. The RING domain of many TRIM has been shown to have E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, whereas the B box and coiled coil domains may be involved in protein-protein interactions and homo/heterodimerization.
Some TRIM proteins were shown to be involved in a variety of cellular functions including cell proliferation, differentiation, development, oncogenesis, and apoptosis, but the functions of most TRIM proteins are not well understood. It has been reported that several TRIM proteins are up-regulated by type I interferons (IFN) suggesting potential innate immune functions, and it was shown that some TRIM proteins have an antiviral activity.
Using various biochemical and cell biology tools, we will determine the cellular functions and potential antiviral activities of TRIM family proteins.
Student Requirements: Junior or senior with Biochemistry or Molecular Biology coursework completed or in progress.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) 13. Song B, Javanbakht H, Perron M, Park DH, Stremlau M and Sodroski J. Retrovirus restriction by TRIM5a variants from Old World and New World primates. J. Virol 2005; 79:3930-3937.
(2) 17. Stremlau M, Perron M, Lee M, Yuan L, Song B, Javanbakht H, Diaz-Griffero F, Anderson DJ, Sundquist WI, and Sodroski J. Specific recognition and accelerated uncoating of retroviral capsids by the TRIM5a restriction factor. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 2006; 103:5514-5519.
(3) 19. Si Z, Vandegraaff N, Ohuigin C, Song B, Yuan W, Xu C, Perron M, Li X, Marasco WA, Engelman A, Dean M and Sodroski J. Evolution of a cytoplasmic tripartite motif (TRIM) protein in cows that restricts retroviral infection. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 2006; 103:7454-7459
Techniques used in this lab: Plasmid DNA isolation, Cloning, Cell culture, Transfection, Western blotting, Immunoprecipitation, Immunostaining, ELISA, and Flow cytometry
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