Murray State University

Characterizing Germline Stem Cell Development Using Drosophila melanogaster

Institution

Murray State University

Abstract

Stem-cell research is an exciting and growing field of biology with numerous possible applications in medicine. Using the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) as a model system, we are studying germline stem cells so that their development may be better understood. Germline stem cells have been called the ultimate stem cells because of their ability to differentiate into any type of cell. By using various genetic and biochemical approaches we are able to classify and characterize protein interactions, localization, and enzymatic activity during oogenesis. Our research revolves around the Tudor protein. This is a large protein that contains eleven individual domains that are responsible for Tudor’s various roles during germ cell development. Tudor has been shown to be vital for the formation of the germ cells in Drosophila embryos. By studying Tudor, and its effects on germline development, we hope to build a more advanced understanding of stem cells.

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Characterizing Germline Stem Cell Development Using Drosophila melanogaster

Stem-cell research is an exciting and growing field of biology with numerous possible applications in medicine. Using the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) as a model system, we are studying germline stem cells so that their development may be better understood. Germline stem cells have been called the ultimate stem cells because of their ability to differentiate into any type of cell. By using various genetic and biochemical approaches we are able to classify and characterize protein interactions, localization, and enzymatic activity during oogenesis. Our research revolves around the Tudor protein. This is a large protein that contains eleven individual domains that are responsible for Tudor’s various roles during germ cell development. Tudor has been shown to be vital for the formation of the germ cells in Drosophila embryos. By studying Tudor, and its effects on germline development, we hope to build a more advanced understanding of stem cells.