Research Projects
The evolution of fruit flies
Sequencing the DNA of two different species of fruit flies that used to be the same species and comparing two different regions on the DNA of the flies.
Biochemistry
Due to proprietary constraints, the description of this project has been omitted at this time.
The distribution of nano-particles throughout the body using Positron Emission Tomography
Using a con-focal microscope, Tanu Patel will be analyzing how ultra-fine particles, which have been injected into lab specimen, distribute within an organism. Since air pollution consists of ultra-fine particles, Patel will essentially be researching the effects that air pollution has on health. Air pollution has been a rising issue over the past few years due to the recent knowledge about Global Warming.
Studying the function of liver mitochondria when they are missing an essential amino acid, and seeing their purpose in the mitochondria.
After receiving samples of mitochondria from rats that were fed a threonine deficient diet. The researcher will now test to see if the mitochondria deficient in threonine have the same absorbance as regular mitochondria, from rats with normal diets, when the synthetic threonine is added. Furthermore, the project will attempt to uncover the function of threonine based on hypotheses that say it helps in complex 1 conversion of ADP to ATP in the mitochondria.
Cognitive neuroscience, specifically regarding attention speed and visual perception.
This project uses a fundamental method, called the subtractive method, in order to determine how fast the brain responds and performs certain tasks. The data from recording the speed of the brain waves will help Thomas identify the type of brain wave and also possibly locate the area of the brain that releases the waves. Thomas will be extracting data from human subjects, and analyzing possible biases or influences that may change data results.
Molecular identification of different fungi found on diseased wood
Fungi were already isolated from diseased wood and identified by their physical characteristics seen underneath a microscope. This project involves the identification of the fungi through examining its DNA. The process involves: extracting DNA from the fungi, multiplying specific segments of the DNA, insuring that a specific number of base pair were multiplied using a process known as gel electrophoresis, then finally purifying the DNA obtained in order to send off to another lab which will provide Tracy with the structure of the fungi’s DNA.
Maggot behavior in forensic entomology
Our lab is studying maggot behavior to understand how they collect when feeding on carcasses. If the maggots only group with others of their own species, then forensic entomologists must change their method of collecting insects in order to obtain samples of each species. This research would improve how accurately forensic entomologists gather their data, helping the entire field as a whole.
Bioinformatics and the analysis of biological sequences of DNA, RNA, and proteins.
Using computer programming to analyze patterns or any repetitions in genetic material. Such studies could be used to determine the abnormalities in the genetic structures that may cause diseases, or help better explain and understand the genetic makeup of animals.
Tyrosine Sulfation
Tyrosine sulfation is a process in which sulfate is added to tyrosine to make it sulfated. It plays an important role in enhancing protein protein interaction. Viruses will attack a host cell easier if they are sulfated. This research involved in the prediction of tyrosine sulfation sites in viruses.
Sequencing a gene construct in transgenic tomato lines.
The sweetness and size of tomatoes typically have an inverse relationship; the project Zhejun Zhou is working on aims to sequence the transcription factor in transgenic tomatoes that causes them to have a higher yield than normal tomatoes. Transcription factors are proteins that regulate the expression of other genes; once the transcription factor is sequenced, it can be injected into tomato plants to produce transgenic tomatoes that are better tasting than normal ones. The applications of this project are widespread, as farmers and planters can utilize this information to produce bigger and sweeter tomatoes for everyone.
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