Drosophila Glioblastoma Model to Study Signaling Pathways

Drosophila Glioblastoma Model to Study Signaling Pathways

Presenter(s)

Jibriel Saqibuddin; additional authors: Arushi Rai, B.N. Rohith, Amit Singh, Madhuri Kango-Singh

Comments

Presentation: 1:15-2:30 p.m., Kennedy Union Ballroom

Description

AbstractObjective: Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive and malignant brain tumor that has limited treatment options. The amplification of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-VIII (EGFR-VIII) and activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (P13K) pathway are common genetic alterations observed in GBM patients. Our objective is to model GBM in Drosophila melanogaster and study the signaling pathways that promote GBM growth and inhibit cell death. Specifically, we aim to investigate the roles of MAPK, Hippo, and WNT signaling pathways in regulating GBM growth, and Cactus expression which regulates the JNK pathway.Method: Our project involves genetic crosses that produce larvae with GBM, followed by brain dissections and immunohistochemistry to study changes in signaling pathways that promote GBM growth. Specifically, we are studying the early time points to understand the roles of signaling pathways like MAPK, Hippo, and WNT in promoting GBM growth and/or inhibiting cell death. By comparing our GBM models to experimental controls, we aim to generate initial data for designing further genetic experiments to identify specific signaling interactions that affect cell death and proliferation. We will be using two fly lines, Line 1: UAS P13K92E;+;RepoGFP/TM3B;Sb, and Line 2: W*UASEGFR * *λtop/TM6C for our studies. A genetic cross between these lines is expected to generate larvae that show glioma overgrowth due to coactivation of PI3K and EGFR in the glia.Significance: The proposed research has significant implications for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying GBM growth. Using Drosophila as a model system allows for efficient genetic manipulation and provides a cost-effective way to study complex biological processes. Additionally, the results of this study will contribute to our understanding of GBM and have the potential to inform the development of more effective treatments for this devastating disease.

Publication Date

4-19-2023

Project Designation

Independent Research 202280 BIO 421

Primary Advisor

Madhuri Kango-Singh

Primary Advisor's Department

Biology

Keywords

Stander Symposium, College of Arts and Sciences

Institutional Learning Goals

Scholarship; Practical Wisdom; Critical Evaluation of Our Times

Drosophila Glioblastoma Model to Study Signaling Pathways

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