Team Leader
Veronika Mojik
Texas A&M University
Cell Biology and Genetics
vmojik@tamu.edu
Project Type
Research
Who Can Join
Undergraduate Students
Project Description
Glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) plays a key role in sugar metabolism. In mammals, the main G6Pase encoding gene (G6PC1) is expressed in the liver and kidney and functions as a key enzyme in converting glucose-6-phospate to glucose when animals are food-deprived, assuring blood sugar homeostasis when food is scarce. Surprisingly, Drosophila melanogaster G6Pase is expressed in the CNS, specifically in different subsets of neurons that produce five different neuropeptides – small signaling molecules that are involved in regulating various physiological processes. Our lab has found that flies missing the genes encoding these neuropeptides show striking differences in fat and glycogen metabolism when compared to normal flies. We also found that the function of G6P is critical in efficient release of these neuropeptides. This suggests that G6P plays an important role in regulating carbohydrate and fat metabolism.
In this project, we will explore how each of these neuropeptides affect fat and carbohydrate metabolism and overall health. Team members will set up genetic crosses to create flies that are lacking the neuropeptides, and then run various assays to measure their fat and glycogen levels, physical activity, and health span. These experiments will provide important new insights and expand our understanding of the role of neuropeptides in metabolism.
Team Needs
Seeking curious and motivated students who are excited to learn about the role of genes and neural networks control metabolism. Skills in some of the following methods and techniques are preferred, but not essential: background in genetics, Drosophila husbandry, and molecular biology (pipetting, gel electrophoresis, PCR) and microscopy.
In this project, you’ll work directly with Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) to create and study the effects of genetic mutations on sugar and fat metabolism. You’ll help maintain fly stocks, track and set up genetic crosses, and carry out experiments to measure fat and glycogen levels, behavioral activity, and lifespan. The work involves handling of living organisms and attention to detail. If you enjoy learning new techniques, and collaborating with others, you’ll thrive in our team.
Special Opportunities
You’ll have opportunities to present your results at lab meetings, undergraduate research symposia, and possibly in co-authorship of scientific publication. This project offers a chance to develop practical research skills, strengthen scientific communication, and be part of a collaborative team exploring how the brain regulates nutrient balance.