The Relevance of a Conserved ATPase Domain to the Overall Function of Caenorhabditis elgans RNA Helicase A

Author

Amy Rani Nath

Date of Award

2004

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Natural Sciences

First Advisor

Walstrom, Katherine

Keywords

Walstrom, Katherine, C. elgens, RNA Helicase A

Area of Concentration

Biochemistry

Abstract

RNA Helicase A (RHA-1) is a conserved protein found in such diverse animals as cows, humans, Drosophila melanogaster, and Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). This study focuses on C. elegans RHA-1, which has been found integral to germline proliferation. We attempt to determine if the conserved ATPase domain within the protein is necessary to the overall function of RHA-1 in vivo. A plasmid containing rha-1 was constructed and injected into rha-1(tm329) worms with the intention of rescuing RHA- I activity within these animals. Some positive results indicated a partial rescue of activity, and we subsequently injected rha-1(tm329) worms with an rha-1 -- containing plasmid carrying a K410E mutation in the ATPase domain of the protein. Currently, we are attempting to assess the effects of this mutation on the degree of rescue of RH activity in the rha-1(tm329) worms.

Rights

This bibliographic record is available under the Creative Commons CC0 public domain dedication. The New College of Florida, as creator of this bibliographic record, has waived all rights to it worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law.

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