The aim of the research in this proposal is to increase the understanding of general cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying morphogenesis. Towards this goal, the attachment of the uterus and vulva in the Caenorhabditis elegans model system will be examined. Formation of the C. elegans uterine-vulval connection requires the breakdown of basement membranes, the process of cellular invasion, and the establishment of de novo adhesions between cells. Similar morphogenetic processes are found during mammalian organogenesis, wound repair, angiogensis and in pathogenic conditions such as metastatic cancer. Therefore, knowledge gained from this study will likely reveal general cellular and molecular mechanisms that have important relevance to human disease and development. A pilot screen has identified the gene cog-1 (connection of gonad defect), which is critical for uterine-vulval attachment. The cog-1 gene encodes a homeodomain transcription factor that likely regulates other genes necessary for uterine-vulval attachment. The proposed research will use genetic mosaic and inducible expression experiments to determine when and in what cells COG-1 functions to regulate uterine-vulval connection. Insights from these studies will then guide a genetic screen that will identify genes regulated by COG-1 that mediate uterine-vulval attachment.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32GM019977-02
Application #
6178896
Study Section
Biological Sciences 2 (BIOL)
Program Officer
Wolfe, Paul B
Project Start
1999-08-01
Project End
Budget Start
2000-08-01
Budget End
2001-07-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$37,516
Indirect Cost
Name
California Institute of Technology
Department
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
078731668
City
Pasadena
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
91125