Project Mentor
Dr. Melanie Tran
Department of Medicine
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Renal fibrosis is the pathophysiological hallmark of chronic kidney disease, which is characterized by fibroblast activation and dysregulation of the extracellular matrix. However, the mechanisms implicated in renal interstitial fibrosis are not well understood. This research project aims to investigate signaling pathways that regulate fibroblast activation and renal fibrosis. The student will gain extensive experience in cell culture, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, Western blot and animal models of kidney disease. |
| Project Direction | This research project will provide a greater understanding of the complex biology of matrix-producing fibroblasts and the development of interstitial fibrosis in the kidney. We will use a combination of in vitro human and mouse kidney cell models and in vivo mouse models of chronic kidney disease to address our question. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | I will train the student in the techniques required for the project, including cell culture, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, RNA extraction and RT-PCR. If there are animals involved, the student will be appropriately trained including the handling of mice and assist with collection of tissue samples. We will meet daily to plan out the day, discuss and review the latest results, and plan for future experiments. There will be regularly scheduled lab meetings where the student will present his/her work for discussion and feedback. Student will be co-mentored by Dr. Yanlin Wang. |
| Student Qualifications | A background in biology and an interest in research is preferred. Some basic laboratory skills preferred but not required. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 23 to July 29, 2022 Schedule: M-F, 9am-5:30pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2022, Spring 2023 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 6- 9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP22-28. The application deadline is Monday, January 31, 2022.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, a brief statement of research interests, and a brief statement of career interests. References should be available upon request.