Investigating the role of the RNA binding protein HuR in spinal tissues using a mouse transgenic model (360G-Wellcome-211825_Z_18_Z)

Understanding the biological mechanisms underpinning chronic back pain is essential for future development of treatments for this debilitating condition. The roles of post-transcriptional gene control in the regulation of spinal structures such as the intervertebral disc (IVD) are poorly understood. Using a conditional knockout mouse model of the post-transcriptional regulatory protein HuR, we have demonstrated that it can perform an important role in the development of the embryonic spine. Building on these findings, this vacation scholarship project will test the hypothesis that tissue-specific knockdown of the RNA binding protein HuR in the IVD of adult mice results in acute degeneration of the tissue. To do this the project has three major aims: Archived lumber spines from control and knockout mice will be processed for routine histological analysis Sections will be blindly scored for IVD degeneration. Immunohistochemistry will be used to assess the levels of HuR in IVD tissue from control and knockout mice to confirm the extent of the knockout and the specific tissues affected. This project involves a program of work that is realistic in scope for a summer scholar, provides practical and analytical research training whilst also directly complementing ongoing research in the supervisor's laboratory.