Stem cells are of intense interest due to their potential use in regenerative medicine, their roles in many aspects of development, the continuous turnover of specific tissues, and their possible role in cancer. Stem cells have almost limitless proliferation capacity allowing a pool of cells to be available over long periods of time. However, some daughter cells must discontinue proliferation and enter a terminal differentiation pathway in order to form the required tissue. In order for stem cells to function properly, a balance must be maintained between proliferation and differentiation. In my lab we are studying how the balance between stem cell self-renewal (proliferation) and differentiation is regulated using the C. elegans germ line as a model. We are using genetic, molecular and biochemical techniques to identify the factors involved in regulating the proliferation versus differentiation decision and to determine how these factors are controlled.
Gupta, Pratyush | M.Sc. | |
Singh, Ramya | M.Sc. | |
Wang, Xin |
Ph.D. |
Study how KIN-10 (beta subunit) affects stem cell proliferation in the C. elegans germ line |
2007 - Alberta Heritage Foundation Scholar Award
2005 - Canadian Foundation for Innovation New Opportunities Award