Document Type
Honors Project
Publication Date
Spring 6-1-2016
Abstract
DAF-19, the only RFX transcription factor found in C. elegans, is required for the formation of neuronal sensory cilia. Four isoforms of the DAF-19 protein have been reported, and the m86 nonsense (null) mutation affecting all four isoforms has been shown to prevent cilia formation. Transcriptome analyses employing microarrays of L1 and adult stage worms were completed using RNA from daf-19(m86) worms and an isogenic wild type strain to identify additional putative DAF-19 target genes. Using transcriptional fusions with GFP, we compared the expression patterns of several potential gene targets using fluorescence confocal microscopy. Expression patterns were characterized in various genetic backgrounds in order to determine isoform-specific expression patterns. Additionally, we completed rescue experiments using cDNAs encoding specific DAF-19 isoforms in a daf-19 null genetic background. Our data indicate that several new genes are activated by DAF-19 in both ciliated and non-ciliated neurons. We are currently developing isoform-specific CRISPR/Cas9 mutants to further explore the precise mechanisms by which different DAF-19 isoforms regulate their target genes.
Level of Honors
summa cum laude
Department
Biology
Advisor
Elizabeth De Stasio
Recommended Citation
Mueller, Katherine P., "Activation of Target Gene Expression in Neurons by the C. elegans RFX Transcription Factor, DAF-19" (2016). Lawrence University Honors Projects. 84.
https://lux.lawrence.edu/luhp/84
Included in
Congenital, Hereditary, and Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities Commons, Disease Modeling Commons, Genetic Processes Commons, Laboratory and Basic Science Research Commons, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Commons, Molecular Genetics Commons, Nervous System Diseases Commons