Distribution of p23 Molecular Chaperone in the Germinal Vesicle of Xenopus Laevis Oocyte
The p23 molecular chaperone was recently shown to play a role in transcription in mammals. In vitro p23 triggers the release of hormone receptor complexes from the DNA and decreases the gene transcription normally caused by the complexes. The goal of this study was to determine the nuclear distribution of p23. In particular, the association of p23 with specific subnuclear domains such as Cajal bodies, chromosomes and nucleoli were studied. As the distribution of macromolecules in the cell lends insight into their function, this research will shed light on the function of molecular chaperone p23. The amphibian oocyte was used as a model system to express p23-RFP (red fluorescent protein). P23 was transported into the cytoplasm and the fate of the newly translated protein was observed on nuclear spread.
School:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department:
Molecular and Cellular Biology
Research Advisor:
Michel Bellini
Department of Research Advisor:
Cell and Structural Biology
Year of Publication:
2003