Investigating the effects of ethanol exposure on the structure and function of the primary cilium (360G-Wellcome-202404_Z_16_Z)
Primary cilia are unique sensory organelles that project from the cell surface. They function primarily as the cells antenna - sensing and responding to stimuli from the surrounding cellular microenvironment. The primary cilium acts as a major signalling hub for the cell, regulating key signalling networks involved in embryogenesis including the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway. Thus, congenital diseases which stem from defects in primary cilia often have underlying Shh perturbation. Work in Dr. Brennan’s laboratory focuses on investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), a condition which arises from maternal ethanol abuse during pregnancy. The syndrome is characterised by craniofacial, neurodevelopmental and ocular defects. Using a chick embryo model of FAS, studies have shown the effect of ethanol on early embryo development involves significant disruption to the developing retina1 and also results in decreased Shh protein expression2. Further preliminary studies suggest that this ethanol-induced disruption of the Shh pathway may be mediated through structural changes to the primary cilium. Thus, this project aims to further explore the effects of ethanol on the primary cilium using a retinal cell culture model. Research in this area could have wider implications in understanding the aetiology of fetal ethanol-related ocular defects.
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Grant Details
Amount Awarded | 2000 |
Applicant Surname | Kutubi |
Approval Committee | Internal Decision Panel for C&S |
Award Date | 2016-04-01T00:00:00+00:00 |
Financial Year | 2015/16 |
Grant Programme: Title | Vacation Scholarships |
Internal ID | 202404/Z/16/Z |
Lead Applicant | Mr Abdubadie Kutubi |
Partnership Value | 2000 |
Planned Dates: End Date | 2016-07-29T00:00:00+00:00 |
Planned Dates: Start Date | 2016-05-30T00:00:00+00:00 |
Recipient Org: Country | Ireland |
Region | Ireland |