Project Mentor

Dr. Yuan Gui
Department of Medicine/Nephrology

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	The project explores how MFAP2 remodels the kidney fibrotic microenvironment. We will subject CKD models, including ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), low-dose cisplatin injection, and Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction (UUO) to WT and MFAP2 knockout mice to evaluate kidney fibrosis after MFAP2 deletion. Besides, global/phosphor-proteomics will performed to explore the underlying mechanism.
Project Direction	MFAP2 is a matrix protein and is mainly produced by fibroblast/pericyte cells. MFAP2 is markedly induced in the kidneys after ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). In this project, we will explore whether MFAP2 plays a role in kidney fibrosis.
Mentorship and Supervision	I will train the students one-on-one for about two weeks. Then I will let the students do some experiments independently and provide guidance anytime.
Student Qualifications	The students may be interested in kidney fibrosis. In the program, the students mainly do some bench research, including western blot gel, cell culture, genotype PCR, Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, and Immunofluorescence (IF) staining.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 19 to July 25, 2025 Schedule: Monday-Friday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2025
Academic Year Time Commitment	3-6 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU25-12. The application deadline is Monday, February 17, 2025.

This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, GPA, and references.