This project explores the cellular protection systems available to the primordial germ line?the embryonic precursors to egg and sperm. The research is centered on the developmental and protective functions of a class of multi-drug resistance ABC transporters that actively efflux toxins, reactive metabolites, and signaling molecules from the cell. It will use two model systems?the sea urchin embryo and a human cell line?to identify these functions in the development and protection of primordial germ cells (PGCs). PGCs have not been characterized in this context before, despite the ubiquitous presence of ?low-dose? pollutants and drugs in the environment, umbilical cord blood and maternal fluids. Modeling the threshold of protective mechanisms in PGCs is crucial for predicting and mitigating early life exposures, in order to help define safe dosage levels and mitigate infertility issues that may arise in utero.

Public Health Relevance

PROJECT NARRIATIVE This project explores the cellular protection systems available to the primordial germ line?the embryonic precursors to egg and sperm. It will model the responses of this cell population to environmental pollutants and drugs that accumulate in umbilical cord blood and maternal fluids, to help define safe dosage levels.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32ES029843-02
Application #
9829043
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1)
Program Officer
Tyson, Frederick L
Project Start
2018-12-01
Project End
2021-11-30
Budget Start
2019-12-01
Budget End
2020-11-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2020
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California, San Diego
Department
Zoology
Type
Earth Sciences/Resources
DUNS #
804355790
City
La Jolla
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92093