Hox gene expression in mouse embryonic stem cells and Neurogenic differentiation of Mesenchymal stem cells

Drinkall, Nicholas (2012). Hox gene expression in mouse embryonic stem cells and Neurogenic differentiation of Mesenchymal stem cells. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

Project 1:
Background: Histone modifications alter gene expression and histones can be acetylated and deacetylated, carried out by acetylases (HATS) and deacetylases (HDACs). HDACs can be inhibited and it is hypothesised epigenetic effects may be heritable. Aims: To investigate whether VPA and TSA induce changes in Hox B gene expression in differentiating embryonic stem cells and whether they are heritable. Results: VPA induced a heritable increase in Hox B5 gene expression. Continuous TSA application may induce Hox B2 expression. TSA reduced the number and size of differentiating embryoid bodies. Conclusion: The VPA induced Hox B5 gene expression increase provides a proof of concept for epigenetic heritability.

Project 2:
Mesenchymal Stem cells (MSCs) are an adult population of stem cells. First isolated from bone marrow, MSCs are also found within dental tissue. MSCs spontaneously express neuronal markers, leading to the hypothesis MSCs have neurogenic differentiation potential. As such In vitro manipulation of MSCs investigating their neurogenic potential demonstrate morphological changes, up-regulation of neural marker expression and functional neuronal analysis implying neurogenic differentiation. With the hypothesis dental derived MSCs provide a more useful source of MSCs than bone marrow, due to increased proliferation rates, accessibility and neural-crest origin. Furthermore, MSCs may be beneficial for a range of neurological diseases.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):