Project Description
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder and is rapidly becoming the most widespread brain disease worldwide. It is thought that PD symptoms emerge from a complex interaction of genetic and environmental risk factors, with gene mutations contributing to approximately 20% of cases. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have pinpointed over 90 loci that potentially affect PD risk, many of which are implicated in endolysosomal pathways. This project aims to explore the role of the TMEM175 gene in the development of PD. The TMEM175 gene is responsible for coding the lysosomal transmembrane protein 175 and is increasingly recognized as a significant risk gene associated with PD. Initially, we will employ small interfering RNA (siRNA) constructs targeting the TMEM175 gene (siRNA-TMEM175) in human cell lines via transient transfection. The success of the TMEM175 knockdown will be verified through RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry, and western blot analysis. Subsequently, we will evaluate the effects of TMEM175 knockdown on endolysosomal trafficking, lysosomal functionality, and protein aggregation in human cell lines, utilizing western blot analysis, immunocytochemistry, and microscopy.
Tasks and Responsibilites
-Acquiring knowledge of the literature on neuroscience, brain anatomy, neurodegenerative diseases, the genetics of Parkinson's disease, endolysosomal pathways, and the TMEM175 protein.
-Executing cell and molecular biology techniques: cell culture, cell transfection, RNA extraction, RT-PCR, protein extraction, Western blot, immunocytochemistry, and microscopy.
-Developing data analysis and statistical skills.
-Delivering presentations on scientific papers and research findings during lab meetings.
-Composing scientific reports.
Desired Qualifications
None Listed.