Mentor Areas
Hematopoiesis is a complex and highly regulated process by which stem cells residing in bone marrow produce a constant stream of blood cells to preserve a functional hematopoietic system throughout the duration of a human lifespan. Mutations in epigenetic regulators, transcription factors, splicing proteins and tumor suppressors can derange the normal course of hematopoiesis, and lead to clonal expansion and leukemia. Several mutated proteins also regulate ribosomal biogenesis. Normal ribosomal function is crucial for hematopoiesis, and dysfunction can either lead to bone marrow failure or myeloproliferation. The mechanisms by which most of these mutated genes produce malignancy remain poorly understood. In the Paralkar Lab, we apply state-of-the art molecular biology techniques to in vitro and in vivo models of hematopoiesis and leukemia to study normal blood development and the mechanisms of leukemogenesis, and gain insight into the delicate balance between normal differentiation and malignancy.
Description:
Potential projects will involve using mouse and human experimental systems to study gene regulation and ribosome biogenesis in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and the process by which abnormalities in these processes affects normal HSC function and produces leukemia. Interested students should contact us to discuss specifics.
Preferred Qualifications
Coursework in cellular biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related subjects.
Project Website
Learn more about the researcher and/or the project here. Paralkar Lab
Details:
Preferred Student Year
First-year, Second-Year
Academic Term
Fall, Summer, Spring
I prefer to have students start during the above term(s).Volunteer
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to volunteers.Paid
No
Yes indicates that faculty are open to paying students they engage in their research, regardless of their work-study eligibility.Work Study
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to hiring work-study-eligible students.