Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
12-1-2022
College
Sciences and Mathematics, College of
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Rebecca Adams
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
The process of creating proteins from mRNA is necessary for cell viability. Importantly, the proteins that are generated are differentially regulated so that the cell makes specific proteins in response to its environment. For example, mRNA is selectively exported during stress conditions to allow response to this stress. During heat shock at 42°C, in which proteins are denatured, the gene SSA4 encodes a selectively transported protein chaperone that allows refolding of denatured proteins. This study sought to explore the mechanisms of this selective export. To do this, I analyzed the expression of a fluorescent reporter wherein GFP is expressed with the SSA4 promoter, 5’ UTR, and 3’UTR. S. cerevisiae was used as a model system for eukaryotic expression due to ease of observation for mRNA export. Based on the expression of endogenous SSA4, we hypothesized that the samples incubated at 37°C and 42°C should display increased levels of fluorescence relative to unstressed cells. However, only the samples incubated at 37°C where SSA4 is induced, but where selective mRNA export does not occur, demonstrated increased GFP expression. Therefore, we conclude that our reporter is selectively exporting at 37°C but not at 42°C.
Recommended Citation
Firmin, Caroline and Adams, Rebecca, "Assessing Selective Export of Fluorescent SSA4 Reporters" (2022). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 33.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/33
