Michael Sbarounis
Research Mentor(s): Bing Ye
Department or Program: Life Sciences Institute
Authors: Michael Sbarounis, Ty Hergenreder, Bing Ye
Session: Session 2: 1:00pm-1:50pm
Poster: 43
Abstract
Down Syndrome is characterized by an extra copy on chromosome 21; however, it is unknown which genes on chromosome 21 contribute to the medical conditions. Our lab discovered that a gene on chromosome 21 called Down Syndrome Cell Adhesion Molecule (DSCAM) contributes to the altered neurodevelopment in Down syndrome. To further study the role of DSCAM, our lab has conducted a variety of methodologies including Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Western blotting. Utilizing the thermocycler, PCR duplicates a section of the DNA containing a gene of interest which will allow us to determine if our mice possess the gene. We used this technique to identify the wildtype and the trisomic mice to utilize in experiments. Once we determined the genotype, we conducted western blotting. Western blotting begins with running protein through a gel and then transferring the protein onto a PVDF membrane. Next, with this PVDF membrane, we stain for whichever protein we desire by reading the protein ladder. Using western blotting, we determined the amount of protein present in each mouse that we genotyped. Currently, I am utilizing these methodologies to determine if there are differences in DSCAM levels at peak expression time (10 days after birth). By analyzing the protein levels, we can better understand the role DSCAM plays in Down Syndrome neuronal development at different ages.
