Summary
This research project aims to understand how Hox genes regulate body size and asexual reproduction in planaria to uncover the fundamental principles underlying regenerative abilities in animals.
Hox gene regulation of body size and asexual reproduction underlie regenerative abilities
US · IL
NIH
grant
open
#nih-5R35GM154889-03
What they want
The project involves investigating the functions of Hox genes in highly regenerative organisms, specifically planaria. This includes studying their role in asexual reproduction and body size regulation, utilizing advanced molecular analysis and large-scale gene interference screens (RNAi screen). The ultimate goal is to mechanistically dissect how Hox genes support whole-body regeneration and identify shared gene regulatory networks linking regeneration and asexual reproduction.
Deliverables
- Expanded understanding of Hox gene functions in developmental genes
- Insight into fundamental principles distinguishing regenerative versus non-regenerative body plans
- Identification of genes with dual functions in whole-body regeneration and asexual reproduction
- Uncovering a shared gene regulatory network linking whole-body regeneration and asexual reproduction
Technical requirements
- Advanced molecular analysis
- Large-scale gene interference screens (RNAi screen)
- Use of planaria as an invertebrate model
