The postulated role of exocytosis in mediating various functional responses associated with neutrophil activation has not been directly tested. We will use a novel approach;generating TAT-fusion proteins containing the coiled-coil domains of different SNARE proteins;to test the hypothesis that blocking exocytosis of distinct granule subsets will prevent specific neutrophil phenotypic changes and this strategy may be used to prevent neutrophil-mediated tissue damage in vivo. The specific objectives of the mentored phase of this proposal are: 1) To determine the ability of TAT-fusion proteins containing the SNARE domains of SNAP-23, syntaxins, and VAMPs to inhibit exocytosis of each of the four neutrophil granule subsets. The training goal of this aim is to develop molecular biology and cell biology skills that will allow the applicant to address experimental questions at new levels and apply them in the independent phase of this proposal. 2) To determine the most effective way to administer the TAT-SNARE fusion proteins in vivo and to determine the effect of these fusion proteins on models of acute neutrophil-dependent inflammation in rats. The training goals of this aim are to learn animal models of neutrophil-dependent inflammation, and to establish the ability of TAT-fusion proteins to inhibit neutrophil exocytosis in vivo. 3) Define other proteins that interact with SNARE proteins by proteomic analysis. The training goal of this aim is to develop the ability to perform proteomic analysis. The state-of-the-art techniques acquired during the mentored phase will greatly increase the expertise that will allow the PI to become a successful independent investigator. For the independent phase the specific objectives are: 1) To determine the specific functional responses that are regulated by neutrophil granule exocytosis;2) To define the mechanisms by which inhibition of neutrophil exocytosis in vivo blocks the inflammatory response;and 3) To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which exocytosis is stimulated. The training the applicant will receive will make her unique in the combination of experience, interest, and state-of-the-art technology and will maximize her potential to become an independent NIH-funded investigator.
Neutrophils participate in a number of acute and chronic human illnesses, including ischemia/reperfusion injury, vasculitis, and inflammatory arthritis. The new knowledge developed from this proposal will have a significant impact on the development of novel therapeutic strategies for these illnesses. Additionally, the mentoring plan will lead to the transition to independence of the applicant.
