LPAR Expression Levels During Chick Retinal Development
School Name
Governor's School for Science and Mathematics
Grade Level
12th Grade
Presentation Topic
Cell and Molecular Biology
Presentation Type
Mentored
Abstract
Lysophosphitidic acid (LPA) is a known extracellular signaling molecule which activates distinct receptors as encoded by LPAR genes. Recent work by Dr. Birgbauer has shown that LPA causes growth cone collapse in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), suggesting that it is an important axon guidance molecule. We used the chick visual system as a model in order to study LPA receptor (LPAR) gene expression levels and patterns in the retina. We were looking at LPAR 4 specifically, because it is the least researched. To do this, we used a quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) machine. Our results suggested to us that LPAR 4 tends to be expressed more in later stages of development. Discovering LPAR expression patterns in the retina could aid in identifying and treating congenital retinal defects such as albinism .
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Chalmers, "LPAR Expression Levels During Chick Retinal Development" (2018). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 21.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2018/all/21
Location
Neville theater
Start Date
4-14-2018 9:00 AM
Presentation Format
Oral and Written
LPAR Expression Levels During Chick Retinal Development
Neville theater
Lysophosphitidic acid (LPA) is a known extracellular signaling molecule which activates distinct receptors as encoded by LPAR genes. Recent work by Dr. Birgbauer has shown that LPA causes growth cone collapse in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), suggesting that it is an important axon guidance molecule. We used the chick visual system as a model in order to study LPA receptor (LPAR) gene expression levels and patterns in the retina. We were looking at LPAR 4 specifically, because it is the least researched. To do this, we used a quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) machine. Our results suggested to us that LPAR 4 tends to be expressed more in later stages of development. Discovering LPAR expression patterns in the retina could aid in identifying and treating congenital retinal defects such as albinism .
