Project Mentor
Dr. Steven Chou
Department of Molecular Biology & Biophysics
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Biochemical characterization of the membrane progesterone receptor mPRβ The membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) are a family of cell-surface receptors that mediate rapid, non-genomic progesterone signaling. Among the five known members, mPRβ remains poorly characterized. In this project, the student will overexpress and purify mPRβ using insect or mammalian cell systems, then investigate how progesterone and related small molecules influence its biochemical properties. The student will use techniques such as surface plasmon resonance and negative-stain electron microscopy to evaluate ligand-induced structural changes. |
| Project Direction | This project contributes to a broader effort to understand how mPRs transduce progesterone signals through Gi- and Gs-protein pathways, influencing processes such as oocyte maturation, sperm activation, and prolactin regulation. After establishing a biochemical profile of the receptor, we will extend the work into the academic year by determining high-resolution structures of mPRβ using cryogenic electron microscopy. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | A Ph.D. graduate student and the PI will work closely with the undergraduate student to ensure a strong understanding of the project and laboratory techniques. The mentoring process will follow a structured progression: (1) the mentor will first demonstrate each experiment while the undergraduate observes and takes detailed notes; (2) the undergraduate will then repeat the experiments under direct supervision; and (3) once proficient, the undergraduate will conduct experiments independently. Throughout the summer, the student will participate in journal clubs by presenting relevant research papers and will give weekly updates on experimental progress during lab meetings. |
| Student Qualifications | Students should have a foundational understanding of proteins: A. Proteins 1. Amino acids: the fundamental building blocks of proteins. 2. Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation or glycosylation, which alter protein activity and stability.B. Buffers and their components 1. Buffer preparation: the use of reducing agents, protein solubilization with detergents. 2. Affinity purification methods: e.g., Ni-NTA purification.C. Protein Binding Affinity 1. Concepts of dissociation constants 2. Protein conformational changes |
| Summer Schedule Options | Monday-Friday 9am through 6pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2026, Spring 2027 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 6 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU26-6. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a cover letter, unofficial transcript, and a resume or CV.