Project Mentor
Dr. Archana Sanjay
Orthopaedic Surgery
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | The overall objective of the project aims to identify and characterize novel regenerative adult stem/progenitor cells in the periosteum. Periosteum is a connective tissue that covers long bones as well as bones of the cranium, maxilla, and mandible, and it is required for efficient skeletal repair. Compromised, non-healing fractures pose a significant public health problem; understanding the molecular drivers of periosteum-mediated regeneration will help to develop new therapies to reduce the incidence of delayed union and nonunion in fracture healing of both long bones and the craniofacial region. Our laboratory has a longstanding interest in the periosteal response to fracture, as the periosteum is a critical reservoir for skeletal progenitors following injury7,8. We explored the possible presence of Lgr family members in the periosteal layer. Preliminary data show that Lgr6 is expressed in periosteal cells that proliferate at a bone fracture site, while there is undetectable expression of Lgr6 in periosteum of uninjured bones. |
| Project Direction | We will use the Lgr6EGFP-ires-CreERT2 mouse model to investigate the contribution of Lgr6+ cells in fracture healing. These mice will be used to determine Lgr6-GFP reporter expression to examine Lgr6+ periosteal cell expansion during the early response to bone fracture by using cryo sectioning. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will be mentored by PI and the graduate student working on this project. The progress will be monitored every day – on one- one meetings before starting the work we will go over the plan for that day. Progress will be also monitored weekly lab meetings. Written and oral feed back will be provided.The student will be also encouraged to give a formal oral/poster presentation. |
| Student Qualifications | Interested students are expected to learn the cyrosectioning and staining techniques. While no prior knowledge of these techniques is needed, we except student follow best lab practices and manage the time in the laboratory. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 28 to August 2, 2019 Schedule: M-F, 9am-5pm (9am-4pm if using the shuttle) |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2019, Spring 2020 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP19-18/. The application deadline is Monday, February 4, 2019.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV and a brief statement of research interests.