Project Mentor

Dr. Dong Zhou
Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	This summer project proposes to investigate how Calponin 2 (CNN2) determines the prognosis of acute kidney injury (AKI). CNN2 is an actin filament-associated regulatory protein that plays a central role in numerous fundamental biological processes, including cell proliferation, motility, and adhesion to substrates or others cells. Emerging evidence suggests that cell mechanics can have direct, non-transcriptional influences on cell metabolism. AKI is a refractory clinical syndrome associated with extremely high mortality and morbidity. However, very few studies pay attention to the metabolic changes after AKI. Therefore, in this summer project, we will investigate the role of CNN2 in AKI onset and progression from this new perspective, cell metabolism. The applicant will need to perform in vivo, in vitro, ex vivo experiments and learn the skills of bioinformatic analysis for the generated proteomics data for this project.
Project Direction	The main research focus in our lab is the formation of the tissue microenvironment and organ repair. This summer project is the initial part of our new research program: CNN2-organized kidney microenvironment dominants the transition from AKI to renal fibrosis. Successful completion of this summer project will significantly contribute to the progress of the entire program.
Mentorship and Supervision	1. First, we will teach the applicant what kidney disease is from the aspects of the clinic and basic science. 2. Second, we will train the applicant on how to design a frame of the scientific projects for kidney disease. 3. Third, we will train the applicant to master necessary experimental techniques, including PCR, Western blot, immunostaining, and bioinformatics. 4. Fourth, we will assist the applicant in summarizing the research project, preparing the presentation, and publishing the study.
Student Qualifications	Coursework completed/in progress: Cell Biology or Statistics Academic interests related to kidney/liver diseases.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 23 to July 29, 2022 Schedule: M-F, 9am-6pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2022, Spring 2023
Academic Year Time Commitment	3-9 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP22-36. 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 reference information.