Molecular Examination of DNA in Rodlet Cells of Teleost Fish
Description/Abstract/Artist Statement
Rodlet cells are an unusual cell type found only in the tissues of teleost fish. While their cellular morphology initially lead researchers to classify them as a distinct parasitic species, observations of their behavior and function have demonstrated characteristics less of a typical invader and more of an endogenous or symbiotic cell. This has created a debate around the evolutionary origin of this unique cell type. This experiment seeks to explore this mystery by using molecular techniques to sequence DNA directly from a rodlet cell and compare it to that of its host. In normal circumstances the quantity of host DNA vastly outnumbers any rodlet cells present, making isolation of rodlet cell DNA difficult. Using Lase Capture Microdissection we were able to isolate and extract rodlet cells from the surrounding tissue. LCM is a technique that utilizes an infrared laser to adhere target cells to a synthetic polymer and remove them from the surrounding tissues. This method allows us to extract a more rodlet cell rich sample for genetic amplification and sequence analysis.
Presentation Type
Event
Location
Learning Commons @ Perry Library, Northwest Atrium
Start Date
2-18-2017 8:00 AM
End Date
2-18-2017 12:30 PM
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Molecular Examination of DNA in Rodlet Cells of Teleost Fish
Learning Commons @ Perry Library, Northwest Atrium
Rodlet cells are an unusual cell type found only in the tissues of teleost fish. While their cellular morphology initially lead researchers to classify them as a distinct parasitic species, observations of their behavior and function have demonstrated characteristics less of a typical invader and more of an endogenous or symbiotic cell. This has created a debate around the evolutionary origin of this unique cell type. This experiment seeks to explore this mystery by using molecular techniques to sequence DNA directly from a rodlet cell and compare it to that of its host. In normal circumstances the quantity of host DNA vastly outnumbers any rodlet cells present, making isolation of rodlet cell DNA difficult. Using Lase Capture Microdissection we were able to isolate and extract rodlet cells from the surrounding tissue. LCM is a technique that utilizes an infrared laser to adhere target cells to a synthetic polymer and remove them from the surrounding tissues. This method allows us to extract a more rodlet cell rich sample for genetic amplification and sequence analysis.
Comments
Mentor: Dr. David Gauthier
Biological Sciences