The 3rd Annual REACHIRACDA Symposium

Baylor College of Medicine

May 16, 2012

Funded by: NIH K12 GM084897

The mission of the Institutional Research and Academic Career Development Award, or IRACDA, is to combine a traditional mentored postdoctoral research experience with an opportunity to develop teaching skills through mentored assignments at a minority-serving institution. The program is expected to facilitate the progress of postdoctoral candidates toward research and teaching careers in academia.

Other goals are to provide a resource to motivate the next generation of scientists at minority-serving insti-tutions, and to promote linkages between research-intensive institutions and minority-serving institutions that can lead to further collaborations in research and teaching.

For Additional Information About the IRACDA Program Visit Our Website:

http://www.bcm.edu/diversityprograms/iracda

IRACDA Participating Institutions

Prairie View A&M UniversityTamiko Porter, PhD

Gloria Regisford, PhDPrekumar Saganti, PhD

Deirdre Vaden, PhD

University of Houston-Downtown

Jerry Johnson, PhDJ. Akif Uzman, PhDLisa Morano, PhD

University of St. ThomasRuth Bagnall, PhDJohn Palasota, PhDRosie Rosell, PhD

Alexandra Simmons, PhD

Dr. Gayle SlaughterSenior Associate Dean, Graduate School

Professor, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Baylor College of Medicine

Co-Principal Investigator and Director ofREACH IRACDA Program

Dr. Hiram GilbertDean, Graduate School

Professor, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Baylor College of MedicineCo-Principal Investigator ofREACH IRACDA Program

Symposium Schedule

8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Poster Set Up

9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Poster Session I, IRACDA Postdoctoral Fellows

Alkek Lobby (1st floor)

10:00 a.m.-10:50 a.m. Poster Session II, Undergraduate Research Students

Alkek Lobby (1st floor) (Odd posters)

11:00 a.m.-11:50 a.m. Poster Session III, Undergraduate Research Students

Alkek Lobby (1st floor) (Even posters)

12:00 p.m.-12:15 p.m. Monica Garcia, Ph.D candidate

Cullen Auditorium Imaging tools for assessing early vascular development in

mammalian embryos

12:15 p.m.-12:30 p.m. Jonathan Respress, Ph.D.

Cullen Auditorium Critical role of RyR2 phosphorylation during the transition from

cardiac hypertrophy to heart failure

12:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Career Development Panel:

Cullen Auditorium Christopher Bland, Ph.D.

Alejandro Contreras, M.D., Ph.D.

Lori Horton, Ph.D.

Wanda H. Vila-Carriles, Ph.D.

1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Lunch (by invitation only)

Rayzor Lounge

SpeakersJonathan Respress, Ph.D.

Jonathan L. Respress, Ph.D., is currently a member of the Wehrens’ lab, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX. Dr. Respress obtained his doctoral degree in Molecular Physiology and Biophysics with specialization in Cardiovascular Sciences from Baylor College of Medicine and his bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Electrical and Computer Engineering from The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD. During his time as a graduate student, Dr. Respress obtained predoctoral funding twice from the NIH, including the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award, as well as the Dean’s award from BCM. He was also nominated twice for the Deborah K.

Martin Achievement Award in Biomedical Research for the most outstanding graduate student, here at BCM, making him the first African-American ever nominated for this prestigious award. He also received the John R. Kelsey Student Speaker Award as well as numerous poster and travel awards throughout his tenure, while serving as a member of student council, curriculum committee, and the American Heart Association Council on Basic Cardiovascular Sciences, in addition to providing his expertise as a SMART mentor and graduate tutor. His thesis work, entitled “Critical Role of RyR2 Phosphorylation During the Transition from Cardiac Hypertrophy to Heart Failure,” resulted in various publications ranging from journals such as Hypertension to Circulation Research and Circulation. The primary objective of Dr. Respress’ proposed postdoctoral research is the “Development of Pacing Leads for Long-Term Implantation for Cardiac Stimulation and Sensing” and “Clinical Studies to Develop a New Model of Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Failure.” His short-term research goals are to continue with this research proposal in order to gain insight into the mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmia during heart failure and develop advanced devices for the determination and execution of these arrhythmias in animal models. His long- term career plans are to maintain laboratory research, practice medicine, and be involved with health awareness in the community through teaching at an accredited university and local seminars. Dr. Respress has aspirations of obtaining an M.D. with specialization in cardiology.

Monica Garcia, Ph.D. candidate

Monica attended Rice University from 2000-2004, where she received a Bachelors of Science in Bioengineering. During her junior and senior years, she worked with Dr. Ka-Yiu San in the field of metabolic engineering, using C. Roseus hairy root cultures for the over-production of the antioxidant lycopene. After graduating from Rice, she worked in the lab of Dr. Monica Justice performing morphometric and statistical analysis of craniofacial abnormalities arising from ENU mutations. She then joined the lab of Dr. Mary Dickinson and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics. Her main research in

the lab is studying the earliest stages of vascular development in the mouse embryo, including vasculogenesis and angiogenesis of the mouse yolk sac. The Dickinson laboratory combines mouse genetics, high resolution confocal microscopy and live embryo culture to understand the molecular and dynamic cellular mechanisms that are required for early vessel development. Monica has received numerous awards during her career and predoctoral funding from a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award. She was a nominee for the 2009 Deborah K. Martin Achieve-ment Award in Biomedical Sciences and obtained the John R. Kelsey Jr. Student Speaker Award at the 2009 Graduate Student Research Symposium at Baylor College of Medicine.

Christopher Bland, Ph.D.

Dr. Bland received his BS in microbiology with honors from the University of Texas-El Paso in 2005, and his PhD from the interdepartmental Program in Cell and Molecular Biology from Baylor College of Medicine in 2010; where he worked in the lab of Dr. Thomas Cooper on alternative pre-mRNA splicing in muscle. Dr. Bland joined the laboratory of Dr. Thomas Westbrook in the department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Baylor College of Medicine in 2011 and is currently working on a joint project with Dr. Westbrook and Dr. C. Kent Osborne (director of the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine) dealing with chemo-therapeutic drug-resistance in HER2-positive breast cancers.

Current Position: Postdoctoral Fellow, department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine.

Alejandro Contreras, M.D., Ph.D.

Dr. Contreras received his BA in biochemical sciences from Harvard University in 1995, and his M.D., PhD from the Cell and Molecular Biology Department from Baylor College of Medicine in 2006; where he worked in the laboratory of Dr. Jeffrey M. Rosen and Dr. Rafael E. Herrera on understanding the role of chromatin modifica-tions in tumorigenesis. He then proceeded to his residency training in Anatomic Pathology at the University of Chicago and finished in 2009. In 2009 he came to Baylor College of Medicine for a fellowship in surgical pathology and was hired as an assistant professor at the end of 2010.

Current Position: Assistant Professor, Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Houston, TX

Lori Horton, Ph.D.

Dr. Horton received her BS in biology and a minor in chemistry from Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), Prairie View, TX, in 2004. She then received her Ph.D. from the Molecular Virology and Microbiology Department at Baylor College of Medicine in 2011; where she worked in the laboratory of Dr. Timothy G. Palzkill. She then proceeded to pursue postodoctoral training under the mentorship of Dr. Theresa M. Koehler at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, TX.

Current Position:Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX.

Wanda H. Vila-Carriles, Ph.D.

Dr. Vila-Carriles received her BS in biology from the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus in 1998. She then received her Ph.D. from the Molecular Physiology and Biophysics Department at Baylor College of Medicine in 2004. She then proceeded to pursue postodoctoral training in the fields of glioblastoma and brain cancer at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. She later transitioned to industry as a medical science liasion for Sanofi Oncology and has been working there since 2007.

Current Position: Senior Medical Science Liaison, Sanofi Oncology/Genzyme Transplant and Oncology, Houston, TX

Panelists

3rd-Year IRACDA Fellows1st-Year IRACDA Fellows

2nd-Year IRACDA Fellows

Marco Giles, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Jin Yang, Ph.D.

Edward Nam, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Gad Shaulsky, Ph.D.

Elizabeth Salisbury, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Alan Davis, Ph.D.

Fredy Reyes, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Stelios Smirnakis, M.D., Ph.D.

Michael Toneff, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Jeffrey Rosen, Ph.D.

Aaron Lauver, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Mariella De Biasi, Ph.D.

Timothy Mahoney, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Meng Wang, Ph.D.

Naxhiely Ramon, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Zheng Zhou, Ph.D.

Gabriel Villares, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Michael Lewis, Ph.D.

Adriana Visbal, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Dean Edwards, Ph.D.

3rd-Year IRACDA Fellows

Past IRACDA Fellows

Shivas Amin, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Olvier Lichtarge, Ph.D.

Audrea Burns, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Daniel Lacorazza, Ph.D.

Maria Fadri-Moskwik, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Li-Yuan Yu-Lee, Ph.D.

Michael Grider, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Matthew Rasband, Ph.D.

Timothy Montminy, Ph.D.Research Mentor:David Bates, Ph.D.

Ryan Udan, Ph.D.Research Mentor:Mary Dickinson, Ph.D.

Gregory Dement, Ph.D.Adjunct FacultyDepartment of Natural SciencesUniversity of Houston-Dowtown

Charletha Irwin-Wilson, Ph.D.Senior Research AnalystDepartment of Pediatrics—Hematology-Oncology, Cell and Gene TherapyBaylor College of Medicine

Albert Ribes-Zamora, Ph.D.Assistant ProfessorDepartment of BiologyUniversity of Saint Thomas

Hector Sandoval, Ph.D.Post-Doctoral AssociateDepartment of GeneticsBaylor College of Medicine

Melissa Suter, Ph.D.Post-Doctoral AssociateDepartment of Obstetrics & GynecologyBaylor College of Medicine

Courses Taught and/or Developed byIRACDA-REACH Fellows

Molecular Biology (BIOL4330)Fall 2011 University of Houston-DowntownMaria Fadri-Moskwik, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Molecular Biology serves as an introduction to the molecular aspects of gene regula-tion in eukaryotic cells. The course emphasizes study of the primary research literature and the creation and testing of hypotheses using current technology. (adapted from the BIOL4330 course description by Dr. Akif Uzman, Dean of the College of Science and Technology at UHD) At the end of the course, students will demonstrate the abilities to: 1) recall and articulate the mechanisms of synthesis, repair, and regulation of DNA, RNA, and protein, 2) design an experiment to isolate biological molecules of interest based upon a desired testable hypothesis, 3) successfully perform biochemical calculations related to molecular biology,(4) apply knowledge and understanding of molecular biology to draw conclusions from experimental data, and 5) describe and recognize analytical strategies to manipulate the flow of biological information.

Introduction to Biophysics and Biomedical Imaging (BIOL4163/PHYS4163) Spring 2012 Prairie View A&M University Ryan Udan, Maria Fadri-Moskwik, and Fredy Reyes

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to provide students with the required foundation for under-standing the principles of biophysics and their application in the biological sciences and medical applications. The course will prepare the students to utilize elementary concepts of modern biophysics and to appreciate problems in the current biomedicine and biomedical research. Students will demonstrate understanding of the contributions of biology, physics, and engineering to the interdisciplinary field of biomedical imaging. Topics to be covered include: The fundamentals of digital image acquisition and processing, optical, confocal and fluorescence microscopy, membrane biophysics, x-ray imaging, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging.

Microbiology (MBIO2305)Fall 2011, The University of Houston-DowntownAudrea Burns, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: There are three major themes within the course: understanding the structure and function of microbes, mechanisms of containing and killing microbes and highlighting common diseases caused by microbes. Throughout the course, the instructor will communicate the basic principles of microbiology. Students will be taught the function, morphology, basic physiology (metabolism and replication), and classes of bacteria. Further, students will learn how and what bacteria cause common human diseases and the immune response to infection. We will discuss exciting new research on microbial interactions and the immune response. Further, through lecture, discussions, oral and written presentations as apart of the final project, students will have the opportunity to gain a thorough appreciation of the complexity of microorganisms

Developmental Biology/Developmental Biology lab (BIOL3445)Fall 2011 (Course developed, but not offered), University of St. ThomasRyan Udan, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: A study of how organisms develop from a single cell to an adult. Two themes to the course will be discussed: classical developmental biology and modern topics in developmental biology. The goals of the course are to provide students with 1) a strong foundation in the basic and modern principles of developmental biology, 2) the ability to fluently describe the developmental signaling pathways, and their roles in specific cellular events that relate to development or disease, 3) techniques to study and manipulate different model organisms from selected phyla which contribute to a deeper understanding of how organisms develop, 4) the ability to integrate and reinforce different levels of biology (genetics, molecular and cellular biology, physiology, ecology and evolution, cancer and stem cell biology) to contribute to the understanding of how organisms form.

Molecular Techniques (BIO4393)Spring 2012, University of St. ThomasTimothy Mahoney, Ph.D., and Gabe Villares Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed as an introduction to understanding and performing key molecular biology techniques in the context of a real laboratory experiment utilizing C. elegans as a model system. Students will acquire the skills to perform basic molecular biology techniques as well as obtain experience in scientific writing, critical analysis of a scientific problem, and working as a team.

Genetics Laboratory Spring 2011, University of St. ThomasTimothy Mahoney, Ph.D. (co-taught)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Helped to develop a new genetics lab using C. elegans and Drosophila, along with some modules on genetic variation testing and bioinformatics. This is the third introductory course in the biology department; therefore, the goal is to prepare students in basic molecular techniques and genetics. Emphasis is placed on mastering laboratory skills, though future versions of the course will place more emphasis on merging these topics to an overall problem or case study.

General Microbiology (BIOL 3333)Fall 2011, University of St. ThomasTimothy Montminy, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: General Microbiology serves as an introduction to the biology of microorganisms with an emphasis of prokaryote biology. Major topics include bacterial cell structure and function, bacterial growth and metabolism, microbial genetics, and the control of microbial growth. Course work, examinations, and classroom activities are problem based, stressing data interpretation and critical thinking skills. At the completion of the course students will be able to: 1) describe the morphology, culture, movement, and biochemical activities of a variety of microorganisms, 2) understand various structure-function relationships in both bacteria and viruses, 3) explain the process by which bacteria replicate, repair, and transfer their genetic material 4) discuss mechanisms of gene regulation common in bacteria, and 5) interpret experimental data involving techniques commonly used in microbiology.

Molecular Biology, BIOL 3351Spring 2012, University of St .ThomasTimothy Montminy, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The Molecular Biology course is designed to introduce the molecular basis of biological activity and the molecular techniques utilized to study biology. A special focus is placed on the interactions of DNA, RNA and protein biosynthesis in eukaryotic biology. Course work and class activities involve a variety of problem solving exercises, emphasizing the interpretation of primary data and experimental design. At the completion of the course students will be able to: 1) describe the general principles of gene and genome organization, genome replication, and gene expression, 2) understand the processes of transcription and translation and how both are regulated, 3) discuss the basic elements of protein folding, sorting, and modification, 4) explain the basics of gene regulation and protein function, and 5) interpret the outcome of experiments that involve common molecular biology techniques.

NeuroscienceSpring 2012, The University of Houston-DowntownMichael Grider, PhD

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Offered to upper-level biology students, my class is designed to cover the basics of neuroscience while incorporating ideas from each level of analysis…”from molecules to mind.” For example, the students have learned the complex molecular steps involved in the ‘firing’ of a neuron, how the connections of many neurons form a system (e.g., visual system), and how systems work together at the organismal level to affect behavior, mood, and motivation. I have incorporated several didactic techniques to promote learning. The class incorporates active learning, encouraging students to work together to solve a problem then present their conclusions to their fellow students. “Clicker” technology permitted instant feedback and participation by the students. In addition, the students are responsible for knowing not only the facts, but also about the landmark research experiments behind these important facts. This encourages students to think like a scientist and provides real-world examples of how scientific discoveries are made. I incorporated interesting subject matter aimed at younger students, as well. For example, we covered drugs of abuse in the reward system, sexual desire in the hypothalamus, ADHD, etc. I feel that the combination of interesting subject matter, group based active learning, frequent quizzes/feedback, and presentation of original research has allowed my students to explore the field of neuroscience and peak their curiosity, while reinforcing the basics they will need in future science courses.

Bioinformatics (BIOL3310)Spring 2011 and 2012, University of St. ThomasShivas Amin, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Bioinformatics is the capstone course for all students with a major in Bioinformatics. The course exposes students to current research, literature and techniques in the field of Bioinformatics. Throughout the semester students must develop an original Bioinformatics project that they must present at the end of the class. Upon completion of the course students should be able to 1) Evaluate and compare bioinformatic tools 2) Retrieve relevant data from databases and 3) Develop and test hypothesis using bioinformatic techniques.

Introduction to Population Biology and Evolution (BIOL1351)Fall 2011, University of St. ThomasShivas Amin, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is the first semester of Introduction to Biology. This course exposes students to the theory of evolution, patterns of inheritance, genetics, ecology, and species diversity. In previous years, this course was typically taught in the second semester. During the summer of 2011, I worked with UST faculty to redesign the introduction to biology courses and practicum so that students are first exposed to the unifying theories of biology prior to an introduction to biomolecules, genes and cellular processes.

Introduction to Biology Practicum (BIOL1151)Fall 2011, University of St. ThomasShivas Amin, Ph.D.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The practicum is the laboratory component of the BIOL1351 course. The practicum introduces students to basic biological techniques and principals as well as enhances their comprehension of scientific literacy. A constant focus of this course is the proper present of scientific material. Students worked in groups to complete activities that strengthens their understanding of topics taught to them in BIOL1351, read scientific literature, performed basic biological experiments and produce scientific reports and posters.

Evolution (BIOL 4332)Spring 2012,University of St. ThomasShivas Amin, Ph.D

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Evolution is the capstone course for all students with a major in Biology. This course presents various aspects of the theory of evolution from historical, philosophical and research based perspectives. The course is taught in discussion based format and student participation and debate is the main activity. Additionally, students are also required to read and present landmark papers relevant to the theory of evolution.

Education Related Presentations and Publications1. Fadri M*, Udan R*, Reyes F*, Mitchell H, Cudnik B, Regisford G, and Saganti S. Promoting interdisciplinary

learning: Instituting an “Introduction to Biophysics and Biomedical Imaging” Course at Prairie View A&M University. Poster Presentation at 2011 National IRACDA Symposium. Houston, Tx June 2011. (*these authors contributed equally to the work)

2. Fadri M*, Udan R*, Reyes F*, Mitchell H, Cudnik B, Regisford G, and Saganti S. Promoting interdisciplinary learning: Instituting an “Introduction to Biophysics and Biomedical Imaging” Course at Prairie View A&M University. Manuscript in preparation. (*these authors contributed equally to the work)

3. Fadri M and Rodgers JR. OPTEMA: A tool to teach critical thinking in undergraduate science education. Manuscript in preparation.

IRACDA-REACH Fellows Participation inMentoring Programs

SMART PREP Program, Baylor College of Medicine.

Junior-Senior Research Seminar, University of St. Thomas.

UHD-Scholars Academy Graduate School Application Seminar Series, University of Houston-Downtown.

PVAMU Research Scholars Journal Club BCM Postdoctoral Association Journal Club Series, Prairie View A&M University.

The Role of a5 nAChR subunit in nicotine and ethanol withdrawal

Erica Perez, Aaron Lauver PhD, Mariella DeBiasi PhD

Anxiety is a common withdrawal symptom for both alcohol and nicotine use, and has been shown to play an important role in relapse for both drugs. Gene target studies have recently suggested a strong correlation between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the a5 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunit gene and nicotine and alcohol dependence. Using a mouse model and heterologous expression systems, our lab has previously shown that the a5 nAChR subunit plays an important role in nicotine withdrawal. Currently, we are: (1) testing the hypothesis that a5-containing nAChRs plays a role in alcohol withdrawal, (2) examining the effects of a5 subunits on a3 containing nAChRs in heterologous cells, and (3) testing the hypothesis that the human a5 SNP may have physiological and pharmacological effects on a3b4a5 containing nAChRs.

The role of progesterone receptor as a suppressor of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer

Adriana P. Visbal1, Viroj Boonyaratanakornkit2, and Dean P. Edwards1

1Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, 2Department of Clinical Chemistry, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

Progesterone (P4) action via progesterone receptor (PR) results in increased proliferation of breast epithelial cells and several lines of evidence suggest that P4 exposure is a risk factor for developing breast cancer. Despite the mitogenic activities of P4, the presence of PR in breast cancer is associated with a better prognosis, a better response to endocrine therapy, and a more differentiated phenotype suggesting that PR may have suppressor activity during cancer progression. In T47DY breast cancer cells, a PR negative variant of T47D, loss of PR is associated with a change in cell morphology to a more mesenchymal like shape, increased cell motility and up-regulation of several epithelial-messenchymal transition (EMT) associated genes. Re-expression of PR in this cell line reversed these EMT-like phenotypes. shRNA-mediated knockdown of PR in parental T47D cells resulted in up-regulated gene expression of vimentin and slug, two genes known to play a crucial role in the EMT process. EMT is characterized by morphological changes in cytoskleletal architecture and cell polarity that lead to cell invasiveness. In order to investigate the role of PR in these processes, we developed a 3D acini Matrigel culture system with non-transformed MCF10A human breast epithelial cells in which PR expression is regulated from a tetracycline promoter by doxycycline (Dox). We examined the effect of PR expression, with and without P4, on EMT induced by transforming growth factor β (Tgfβ). Morphological changes characteristic of EMT in 3D cultures were analyzed by immunostaining for epithelial cell polarity markers and by fluorescent labeling of the actin cytoskeleton. Upon Tgfβ exposure, acini become smaller, amorphous, and exhibit actin cytoskeleton protrusions. Additionally, changes in the phosphorylation of the ezrin/radixin/moesin (ERM) family of actin binding proteins are also observed. In Dox-treated acini that express PR, these morphological changes are less pronounced and phospho-ERM levels appear to be restored to those of non-TgfB treated acini. The supression of these Tgfβ-induced phenotypes is most predominant in acini exhibiting the highest levels of PR expression. These data support the concept that PR can suppress EMT during breast cancer progression. On going studies to examine the ability of PR expression to suppress EMT in highly metastatic breast cancer cell lines in vitro and metastatic potential with in vivo mouse models will be reported.

Understanding host-microbe interactions: Dictyostelium discoideum growth on bacteria requires TirA function

Edward A. Nam1, Zhiyi Liu2, Christopher Dinh2, Gad Shaulsky1,2, and Adam Kuspa1,2

1Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine2Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine

In multicellular eukaryotes, host cells activate the innate immune response when exposed to microbes. As a major component of innate immunity, macrophages recognize, phagocytose, and kill pathogenic microbes. However, discerning pathogen, non-pathogen, and self is a significant challenge. In addition, microbes subvert recognition and killing through various mechanisms. Studying complex host-microbe interactions can be challenging in multicellular organisms but is imperative, since these interactions dictate whether disease, commensal, or reservoir states occur. The single-celled amoeba, Dictyostelium discoideum, feeds on gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, including the human pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumophila. The completely sequenced genome is easily manipulated and encodes for ~10,000 genes with many showing high similarity to vertebrate genes. These features make D. discoideum an attractive model to study host-microbe interactions. In vertebrates and plants, many proteins containing Toll-interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domains participate in innate immune responses. In D. discoideum we identified the tirA gene, which contains a predicted TIR domain. Disruption of tirA results in reduced growth on gram-negative bacteria but not on gram-positive bacteria. Previous studies in the lab, including a genetic suppressor screen and mass spectrometry analysis of TirA-interacting proteins, identified several intriguing suppressors and interacting proteins. Future studies aim to show how TirA and these proteins function to promote growth on bacteria.

The role of the peripheral nerves in the generation of brown adipocytes during heterotopic ossification

Elizabeth Salisbury1, ZaWaunyka Lazard1, Eric Rodenberg1,Elizabeth Olmsted-Davis1,2,3, and Alan Davis1,2,3

1Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, 2Department of Orthopedic Surgery, and 3Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of bone in nonskeletal sites, such as muscle or other soft tissue. This abnormal bone formation has been linked to the dysregulation of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. Our lab has developed a mouse model of HO that induces this process by delivery of BMP2 to the skeletal muscle of mice. Using this model, we previously showed that one of the earliest events leading to HO is the rapid appearance of brown adipocytes, which help to pattern the newly forming bone. Our current studies aim to further understand the molecular mechanisms governing the generation of these brown adipocytes. Recent studies suggest brown adipose is induced in response to noradrenaline binding to the β3- adrenergic receptor (ADRB3) after activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). We found a significant increase in noradrenaline, an effector of sympathetic signaling, within the mouse circulation 2 days following delivery of BMP2 in our model. Immunohistochemical and FACS analysis indicated this led to the activation of nerve associated cells expressing ADRB3. This population of ADRB3+ cells was proliferating and expressed the neural migratory marker HNK1. By 4 days after exposure to BMP2, isolation and characterization of these ADRB3+ cells revealed these cells were now found within the soft tissues surrounding the site of BMP2 delivery, suggesting this population of cells migrated from the nerve adjacent to the area of BMP2 delivery towards the BMP2 itself. Furthermore, these cells expressed the brown adipocyte marker UCP1, indicating this BMP2 induced cascade results in the generation of brown adipose. Immunohistochemistry also revealed these brown adipocytes expressed the neural guidance molecule reelin, suggesting brown adipose may play a role in the process of innervating the new bone being formed. Determining the manner in which brown adipocytes expand, migrate, and differentiate will provide insights into the regulation of not only HO, but also brown fat production and function. Future studies will aim to use this knowledge to develop potential diagnostics and therapeutics for HO.

Laminar analysis of contrast adaptation in mouse V1

Wangchen Wang1, Fredy D. Reyes1, Justin Nichols1, MingHui Jiang1, Stelios M. Smirnakis1

1Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza,Houston, TX 77030, USA

An important feature of early visual areas and the neocortex in general is their columnar architecture. The circuit diagram of the cortical column defines the so-called, “canonical microcircuit,” a module of connectivity that is repeated widely across the neocortex. Remarkably, in spite of its ubiquitous presence, the computational significance of this module remains unclear to date. Achieving a better understanding of columnar processing is a question of fundamental importance to neuroscience. We used silicon laminar depth probes to record from mouse area V1 columns during the process of adaptation to dynamic, spatially uniform, full field, stimuli. Stimulus intensity was drawn randomly every 33ms from a Gaussian distribution with fixed mean and standard deviation (contrast), while every 60 seconds the standard deviation of the generating distribution alternated from high contrast (small stdev) to low contrast (large stdev). Previous experiments have shown that retinal ganglion cells adapt to this contrast alternation (“contrast adaptation”), but less is known about how this form of adaptation manifests in cortical circuits. Here we hypothesize that adaptation to the range of ambient light intensities may manifest differently across cortical layers. Preliminary analysis suggests that post-stimulus time histograms demonstrate the phenomenon of contrast adaptation in several cortical layers. Further analysis will focus on demonstrating potential differences across layers. To facilitate comparison across species experiments will proceed in parallel in mouse and macaque V1.

Relevance of the mammosphere assay in determiningtumor-initiating cell frequency

Gabriel J. Villares, Ivana Petrovic, Michael T. Lewis

Lester & Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX

Background: The mammosphere assay has been utilized extensively as a surrogate marker for studying breast cancer tumor-initiating cells (TIC) in vitro. However, the relationship between mammosphere formation and TIC function is not clear. In fact, mammosphere formation may not correlate with TIC frequency in dilution transplantation studies. Determining this relationship in breast cancer cell lines is key to preparing for a large in vivo shRNA screen targeting TIC. Experimental design and methods: SUM159 breast cancer cells and a metastatic variant of MDA-MB-231 (LM-2), were expanded in vitro (plastic-derived cells) or in vivo (mammary fat pad of SCID/BEIGE mice) and utilized for mammosphere formation and dilution transplantation assays. Results: No difference in secondary mammosphere formation frequency was observed between plastic-derived cell lines. In contrast, dilution transplantation studies utilizing both plastic-derived and in vivo-derived cells showed that LM-2 had a significantly higher proportion of TIC than SUM159 cells. Conclusion: The dilution transplantation data indicate that LM-2 cells had higher TIC frequency in vivo than SUM159 cells under both initial growth conditions. This difference was not seen in the mammosphere assay. These data bring to question the relevance of the in vitro mammosphere assay not only in obtaining preliminary data on TIC frequency for the in vivo shRNA screen, but also in using this assay to make definitive conclusions on function or treatment responses of breast cancer tumor-initiating cells.

The use of dendrimers as multivalent scaffolds for novel deliveryof anti-cancer theraputics

Marco D. Giles, Jin Wang

Pharmacology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030

Some major complications with current methods involving the treatment of various cancers revolve around the composition of the chemotherapy drugs used. With molecular weights ranging of approximately 300 to 900 g/mol, these small molecules have few barriers to their in vivo migration, and limited selectivity towards attacking healthy versus cancerous cells. In order to combat this issue, polymers and dendrimers have been studied as candidates to combat this issue. Dendrimers are highly branched macromolecules that consist of sequentially assembled repeating units that initiate at a central core, extend at branching points or generations, and emanate outwards to form a multi-functional periphery. The rigid backbone and compact core of these molecules has been shown to be effective in the encapsulation of small, guest molecules within the void spaces that are formed at their branching points. Additionally, the activated surface layer, decorated with peripheral functional groups, has reportedly served as a suitable platform for the attachment of targeting ligands, solubilizing groups, as well as the drug molecule itself. Although polymeric in consistency, the globular shape of dendrimers represents one of many distinct differences between dendrimers and linear polymers. In this investigation, we attempt to comparatively investigate the effectiveness of a drug-polymer complex in regards to the remediation of cancerous cells and tissues while maintaining a viable environment for healthy cells and tissues. The chosen target drug, gossypol, was chosen because of its symmetric structure and the presence of two benzaldehyde groups. The aldehyde groups were found to be synthetically beneficial; providing a handle for the attachment of the drug to the polymer or dendrimer surface as an acid labile linker. Gossypol was used to form a linear hydrazone polymer by reacting with adipoyl chloride. In similar fashion, gossypol was reacted with a difunctionalized glycerol molecule before being conjugated to a tetricus (acid chloride) functionalized pentaerythritol core to afford the dendrimer. The hydrazone linkages in both polygossypol structures were meant to allow ease in the incorporation of the drug within the polymer, but also to ensure the effective release of the drug following the hydrolysis in the endosomal environment due to the acid sensitivity of hydrazones. With this approach, we aim to effectively tune the uptake and delivery of drug guests while reducing or eliminating the systemic toxicity commonly witnessed in chemotherapy.

Aurora B is regulated by dynamic acetylation/deacetylation oscillations in prostate cancer cells

Maria Fadri-Moskwik1, Kim Weiderhold2, Carol Chuang3, Arpa Deeraksa1,Jing Pan1, Sue-Hwa Lin4, and Li-Yuan Yu-Lee1,2

1Department of Medicine, IAR section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 770302Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030

3 Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 770304Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030

Protein acetylation has been implicated to play a role during mitosis, but the targets remain to be explored. Aurora B kinase plays a crucial role in mitosis and posttranslational modifications of Aurora B are known to regulate its kinase activity, localization and function. Whether acetylation also regulates Aurora B activity is not known. Using PC3 prostate cancer cells, we found that Aurora B is acetylated in mitosis and undergoes rapid acetylation/deacetylation, with peak deacetylation occurring in prometaphase. We found that HDAC3, a deacetylase that was previously shown by our laboratory to localize to the mitotic spindle and regulate spindle stability, is associated with Aurora B by co-immunoprecipitation. Knockdown of HDAC3 or inhibiting HDAC3 activity with a small molecule inhibitor apicidin led to a higher level of Aurora B acetylation. Increased Aurora B acetylation is correlated with reduced Aurora B kinase activity that resulted in defects in Aurora B-dependent mitotic processes, including kinetochore-microtubule attachment and chromosome congression. Thus, our studies suggest that Aurora B kinase activity and function are regulated by dynamic acetylation/deacetylation in mitotic prostate cancer cells.

Funded by NIH/NIGMS # K12 GM084897 (MFM), D.L. Duncan Cancer Center and Alkek Award for Experimental Therpeutics (Ly YL), PC080847, PC093132(SHL)

A miR200 family sensor to detect epithelial to mesenchymal transition in vivo

Toneff MJ1, Herschkowitz JI1, Knezevic J1, Xin L1, Mani SA2, Rosen JM1

1Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, 2Department of Molecular Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center,

Houston, TX 77030

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a phenomenon that occurs during embryonic development in which epithelial cells undergo a transformation to a more mesenchymal state. This is characterized by loss of cell adhesion, altered cellular morphology, and increased motility. Furthermore, cells that have undergone an EMT also exhibit properties of stem cells. In addition, cancer cells that have undergone an EMT have been linked to cancer stem cells, as they have increased self-renewal capacity and are resistant to standard therapeutics. Due to the motile nature of cells exhibiting EMT and their resistance to therapy, they have been implicated in cancer invasion and relapse. The cellular mechanisms regulating EMT involve a complex network of cellular signaling pathways, transcription factors, and microRNAs (miRNAs). One family of miRNAs associated with EMT is the miR200 family, whose expression is frequently lost during cancer progression and is reduced in cells that have undergone an EMT. A subset of human breast cancers has been identified and named as the claudin-low subtype. These tumors comprise an aggressive subset with poor prognosis and display an EMT signature. We have generated a bank of syngeneic p53 null mouse mammary tumors that includes a claudin-low subset, and these tumors exhibit reduced miR200 levels. Overexpression of miR200 family members in immortalized human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs) that have undergone experimental EMT or in claudin-low p53 null tumors can revert the EMT phenotype. In addition, loss of EMT through miR200 expression in these cells is associated with a marked reduction in cancer stem cells. We have validated a fluorescent miR200 sensor that reports the relative levels of miR200 members within a live cell. We hypothesize that EMT occurs, both in stem cells within the developing mammary gland, and in cancer stem cells present within mammary tumors. The use of this sensor will facilitate the isolation of putative stem cell populations that exhibit an EMT state. Molecular and functional analyses of these cells will allow us to study the role of the mir200 family and EMT in the developing mammary gland and in specifying breast cancer stem cell identity.

Node of Ranvier assembly in regenerating peripheral nerves causes active remodeling of the basal lamina

Grider, MH1 and Rasband, MN1,2

Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 770301Department of Neuroscience, 2Program in Developmental Biology

Following injury to the peripheral nervous system, damaged axons are capable of extending fibers to their previous distal targets. These newly regenerated axons grow predominately along the endoneurial sheaths and are remyelinated by Schwann cells. Interestingly, regenerating axons form new branches at former sites of Nodes of Ranvier (Ngyyen 02), suggesting that there are instructive signals within the basal lamina of these sites that persist throughout axonal degeneration and regeneration. Gliomedin, a glial-derived binding partner to the axonal cell adhesion molecule Neurofascin, has been shown to play important roles in node formation, and is a component of the basal lamina. Exogenous gliomedin can also promote node formation in the absence of Schwann cells (Eshed 05). Our hypothesis was that gliomedin remains within the basal lamina surrounding nodes following an injury, and subsequently provides a signal for the formation of new nodes at the same locations. We labeled nodes within the sciatic nerve by injection of monoclonal antibodies directed against gliomedin. Robust labeling of nodal gliomedin was observed with this technique for at least 8 weeks, indicating that gliomedin is very stable in non-injured nerves. We then tested whether, following a nerve crush injury, these labeled nodes would mark the sites for new node formation following regeneration and remyelination (day 14). Surprisingly, the labeled gliomedin was observed in all new nodes of Ranvier (3 fold higher than pre-crush). This strongly suggests that gliomedin is actively remodeled and is incorporated into all new node sites. We are currently investigating whether this active remodeling of gliomedin within the basal lamina requires gliomedin’s axonal binding partner, Neurofascin. To test this, we are injecting Fc fusion proteins into the sciatic nerve designed to disrupt the binding of endogenous gliomedin and neurofascin. In summary, we have found that following a nerve crush injury the basal lamina is actively remodeled and gliomedin is redistributed and incorporated into newly forming nodes of Ranvier.

Dissecting the steps in apoptotic cell clearance through isolationand characterization of snx-1 enhancers

Naxhiely M. Ramón and Zheng Zhou

Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyBaylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030

The removal of apoptotic cells is critical to the proper growth and development of an organism. We are studying the removal of cell corpses in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. C. elegans is ideal for the study of cell corpse removal because of its transparent anatomy along with the availability of vast genetic and cell biological tools. Apoptotic cells are removed by phagosomes where they are promptly degraded. SNX-1, one of three bar domain-containing sorting nexins implicated in cell corpse removal, is a phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PtdIns(3)P) effector that facilitates cell corpse removal by mediating the extension of membrane tubules from the phagosome. SNX-1 was identified in a screen for mutants defective in the removal of cell corpses. Though early snx-1 embryos display strong cell corpse removal defects, the defects are much more subdued in late stage embryos. Additionally, some single mutants defective in cell corpse clearance display stronger defects when combined with other mutations. Thus, additional players in the removal of apoptotic cell corpses have yet to be indentified. We are conducting a screen for enhancers of snx-1. Identification and characterization of snx-1 enhancers will give us a better understanding of apoptotic cell corpse removal.

Hemodynamic force regulates vascular fusion andendothelial cell recruitment during vessel diameter expansion

of the mouse yolk sac plexus

Ryan S Udan, Tegy Vadakkan and Mary E Dickinson

Department of Molecular Physiology and BiophysicsBaylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030

Summary For over the past one hundred years, it has been posited that blood flow regulates the remodeling of vessels, and only recent studies have determined that hemodynamic forces imparted by blood flow are required for vascular remodeling (Chapman, 1918; Lucitti et al., 2007; Manner et al., 1995; Thoma, 1893). However very little is known about the cellular events that promote vessel diameter increase during remodeling, and how hemodynamic force triggers these events. To assess the cellular events of remodeling, we performed live imaging of cultured mouse embryos labeled by two endothelial cell transgenic reporter lines (Flk1-H2B::eYFP [nucleus] and Flk1-myr::mCherry [membrane]). Our data have revealed that vessels of the mouse yolk sac increase their diameter during remodeling via localized recruitment of endothelial cells to growing vessels, and via vascular fusion, which also acts to refine vessel branches.

Hemodynamic force is a critical factor driving vessel diameter increase as only vessels exposed to high amounts of blood flow undergo vessel fusion. Also, arteries exposed to high blood flow exhibit directional migration of endothelial cells upstream of the direction of blood flow to hierarchical vessels, and exhibit directional migration of endothelial cells towards high flow arteries from low-flow/interconnected vessels. Whereas, vascular fusion events are absent in embryos exposed to reduced blood flow (Myosin light chain 2 α mutants), and endothelial cells in these embryos do not exhibit a directional migratory behavior. Taken together, these results directly show in a mammalian system the cellular changes that occur during vessel diameter expansion in response to hemodynamic force.

PtdIns(4)P III kinase prevents neurodegeneration and is required for normal synaptic transmission

Mahoney TR, Jaiswal M, and Bellen H

The molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration are poorly understood. In order to identify novel regulators of neurodegeneration, we performed a forward genetic screen in Drosophila for mutants that exhibit neurodegeneration in fly eye mutant clones. We screened ~6,000 homozygous lethal mutants for synaptic transmission and developmental defects using the FLP/FRT system and identified ~600 synaptic mutants. So far we have identified mutations in over 55 genes leading to synaptic transmission and neurodegenerative phenotypes. We isolated over 20 alleles of PI4K. Some of these mutants exhibit a progressive degeneration of photoreceptors. Electrophysiological analysis reveals defects in synaptic transmission and phototransduction. Ultrastructural studies show a prominent defect in mitochondrial content within synapses. We are in the process of testing mitochondrial function as defective mitochondria may underlie the neurodegenerative phenotype. We believe that PI4K plays an important role in maintaining neuronal integrity by regulating lipid metabolism. We are following up these results with detailed synaptic physiology and cell biology at the neuromuscular junction, where we see markedly abnormal synaptic terminal morphology and defects in synaptic transmission. We are performing genetic epistatic experiments to determine how PI4K controls degeneration through various pathways. These results point to a role of PI(4)P as well as PIPs in general in the regulation of neuronal protection. I will present the progress we have made on identifying the role of PIPs in neurodegeneration.

Examining the role of SeqA in E. coli sister chromosomecohesion and segregation

Timothy P. Montminy, Mohan C. Joshi and David Bates

Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHouston, TX 77098

Hemimethylated DNA is produced during DNA replication, and persists on average for about 5-10 minutes before Dam methylates newly synthesized DNA at GATC sites. SeqA protein binds strongly and specifically to hemi-methylated GATC sites. SeqA binding at the origin of replication prevents re-initiation of DNA replication at already initiated origins. Binding of SeqA at newly replicated DNA has also been shown to play a role in chromosome structure and to regulate Topo IV activity. Preliminary studies in our laboratory that examined prolonged sister chromosome cohesion at the gln loci demonstrated a significant reduction of cohesion in a seqA- mutant. This suggests that SeqA may play a significant role in sister cohesion and segregation. We have developed a methylation-sensitive, restriction endonuclease digestion strategy that allows for the isolation of DNA regions of prolonged hemi-methylation. Utilizing genomic microarray we will create a temporal map of hemi-methylation status across the chromosome. Future studies hope to correlate sites of prolonged hemi-methylation with SeqA binding sites and prolonged cohesion sites using chromatin immunoprecipitation and chromosome conformation capture.

Authors

Reihana Abdelmaksoud, Kimberlyn Garcia, Milena Lobaina, Isaac Omuhambe, Wendy Ramirez, Tyra Montgomery, Hamida Qavi

Anam Ahmed, Laura Hodges, Angela Little, Alexandra Kontrimas, Alexandra D Simmons N

Feyisayo Akindoju, Chevaun Johnson, Melisa Stewart, Cordella Kelly-Brown, Gavannie Beharie, Kemar Hibbert, Tavis Fisher, Steven Lewis, Stephen Hartfield, Julia Stone, Richard Griffin, Laura Carson

Troy Bassiri, Dusty Tobin, Albert Ribes-Zamora

Domonique Carr, Ebonee Williams, Phane Otenyo, Antoine Hicks, Daniel MaCaulay, Deforest Peterson, Julia Stone, Laura Carson, Gloria C. Regisford

Maria Franco-Fuenmayor, Ruth Ann Bagnall

Adeel Faruki, Duc Lam, Mudassar Khan, Niloufar Aghakasiri, Isioma Agboli, Cindy McKenzie, Robert G. Shatters Jr, Rosemarie C. Rosell

Shanique F. Hyllam, Sanique M. South, Tassine. K. Brown, Dwiesha L. Johnson, Godson Osuji

Chevaun Johnson, Feyisayo Akindoju, Steven Lewis, Stephen Hartfield, Melisa Stewart, Cordella Kelly-Brown, Gavannie Beharie, Kemar Hibbert, Tavis Fisher, Julia Stone, Richard Griffin, Gloria C. Regisford, Laura Carson

Dwiesha Johnson, Sanique South, Shanique Hyllam, Tassine Brown, Godson Osuji

Undergraduate Poster Presenters

Poster Title

The Detrimental Effects of Garlic Extracts on Herpes Keratitis

Correlating Polymorphisms of Bovine Milk-Protein-Related Gene Stat5 with Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)

Effect of Biodegradable Polymer on the Growth and Development of Plants: Part II

Evolutionary Trace Analysis of the Ku Heterodimer

Synergistic Effects of Chitosan and Docosahexanoic Acid on Osteopontin Expression and Secretion in an Ovarian Cancer Cell Lin, SKOV-3

CSI for Mysids: An Investigation of Multiple Paternity in the Mysid Shrimp, Americamysis bahia

Temperature stress, anti-oxidative enzyme and virus acquisition in Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera; Aleyrodidae)

The Effects of Mineral Nutrients in Total Chlorophyll and Cellulose Content in Peanuts

Degraded and Purified Chitosan Affects the Aquaporin Protein Expression in Beta Vulgaris

Silencing of Arachin Encoding mRNAs by Glutamate Dehydrogenase-Synthesized RNA

Affiliation

University of Houston-Downtown

University of Saint Thomas

Prairie View A&M University

University of Saint Thomas

Prairie View A&M University

University of Saint Thomas

University of Saint Thomas

Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University

Authors

Jordan Jones, Chelsey Friedrichs, Aaron Luckevich

Andrew M. LeQuang, Wheeler Crawford, Birgit Mellis

Nadine Obeid, Chris Michels, Miriam Lagos, Rosemarie Rosell

Ryan Reynolds, Zoé Knippa, Peter Karagozian, Heather Skeen-Esterheld, Gina Duong,Debra Bramblett, Elmer Ledesma, Rosemarie C. Rosell

Michelle Rubin, Kayla Weaver, Sandra Indiviglio, Albert Ribes-Zamora

Matthew L. Stephens, David R. Rowley

Melisa Stewart, Kemar Hibbert, Gavannie Beharie, Feyisayo Akindoju, Cordella Kelly-Brown, Gloria C. Regisford, Aderemi Oki, Laura Carson

Thu Tran, Wayne Hunter, Rosemarie Rosell

Jocelyn Uriostegui, Huda Khan, Marsha Kurian, Rosemarie C. Rosell, R.A Bagnall

Alan P. Yaacoub, Wheeler C. Crawford, Maia Larios-Sanz, Birgit Mellis

Sonya Wolf , Ting Wen, Marc E. Rothenberg

Zalamea, Jonathan, Carolina Rios-Phillips, Alexandra D Simmons N

Undergraduate Poster Presenters (continued)

Poster Title

Analysis of the Effects of Sulfur on Selenate Accumulation and Toxicity in Chlamydomonas

Characterization of Gold Nanoparticles in Size and Concentration by UV-Vis Spectroscopy

Identifying the Classes of Proteases within the Whitefly Bemisia tabaci

Determining the LC50 of Toluene for Drosophila melanogaster

Visualization of XRCC4-XLF filaments in living cell

Differentiation of Reactive Stroma in a Novel 3D Organoid Culture Model

Water Dispersible Carbon Nanotubes Silica Hybrids

Developing a suitable cell culture medium for the establishment and maintenance of a cell line from the whitefly, Bemisia tabaci

The Role of Bacteria in Maintaining Symbiosis Between Sea Anemones and their Zooxanthellae

Studies on Toxicity and Photothermal Effects of Gold Nanoparticles

Attenuated Annexin I Expression on Murine Gastrointestinal Eosinophils Compared to Blood Eosinophils

Correlating Polymorphisms of Fatty Liver Disease Related Genes with STR Alleles in Cows

Affiliation

Saint Edward’s University

University of Saint Thomas

University of Saint Thomas

University of Saint Thomas

University of Saint Thomas

Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University

University of Saint Thomas

University of Saint Thomas

University of Saint Thomas

Prairie View A&M University

University of Saint Thomas

Acknowledgements

SpeakersMonica Garcia, Ph.D. candidate

Jonathan Respress, Ph.D.

Career Development PanelChristopher Bland, Ph.D.

Alejandro Contreras, M.D., Ph.D.Lori Horton, Ph.D.

Wanda H. Vila-Carriles, Ph.D.

IRACDA Directors/StaffGayle Slaughter, Ph.D.Hiram Gilbert, Ph.D.Laurie Connor, Ph.D.

Dora Juarez, MBAKerri Mejia

IRACDA Fellow Symposium OrganizersShivas Amin, Ph.D.

Maria Fadri-Moskwik, Ph.D.Marco Giles, Ph.D.

Aaron Lauver, Ph.D.Edward Nam, Ph.D.Fredy Reyes, Ph.D.

Elizabeth Salisbury, Ph.D.Michael Toneff, Ph.D.

Ryan Udan, Ph.D.Adriana Visbal, Ph.D.

Participating Partner InstitutionsPrairie View A&M UniversityUniversity of Saint Thomas

The University of Houston-Dowtown

Front Cover Picture:Confocal microscopy image of the mouse yolk sac vasculature labeled with two transgenic fluorescent reporter lines: Flk1-myr::mCherry (which labels endothelial cell membranes with mCherry fluorescent protein) and Flk1-H2B::eYFP (which labels endothelial cell nuclei with Yellow fluorescent protein). Image was used in a lecture of the “Introduction to Biophysics and Biomedical Imaging” course (Biol/Phys4163) at Prairie View A&M University to teach physics topics (confocal microscopy and fluorescence), chemistry topics (discovery and analysis of fluorescent proteins), and biology topics (making transgenic animals and live imaging).