Chromosomal Association of MCD1
The focus of this research project is to investigate the molecular mechanism of MCD1 (Mitotic Chromosome Determinant 1) association with chromatin in the Xenopus oocyte. To elucidate how MCD1 interacts with chromatin and how this association is regulated, epitope-tagged human MCD1 protein will be expressed in Xenopus oocytes. In vitro transcripts of the HA-tagged MCD1 and several mutant constructs will be microinjected into the cytoplasm of oocytes, and nuclear spreads will be prepared for indirect immunofluorescence studies using a specific anti-HA monoclonal antibody, mAb 3F10. Currently-retrieved data strongly suggests that the newly expressed human HA-MCD1 and the C-terminus mutant construct are functional in amphibian oocytes. Now, focus will be placed on proceeding to further map down the protein domain required for the chromosomal association of MCD1 via injecting several other mutant constructs. If such a domain can be characterized, determining whether such a domain is sufficient to drive a non-chromosomal protein to LBCs will be examined.
School:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department:
Molecular & Cellular Biology
Research Advisor:
Dr. Michel Bellini
Department of Research Advisor:
Cell & Structural Biology
Year of Publication:
2004