Medical Student Research Fellowship for Summer 2007

Mentor: Helen H. Hobbs
Department: Internal Medicine & Molecular Genetics
Room number: L5.135
Mail Code: 9046
Phone number: 85672
E-mail: Helen.Hobbs@UTSouthwestern.edu
Project title: Role of PCSK9 in regulating of LDLR activity

Human subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable):

Animal subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable):

Project Type (patient-based research, animal-based research, or basic research; this characterization is only to permit a general classification for grouping similar types of projects)

Brief Description of Project:

Genetic variation in the proprotein convertase PCSK9 contributes to inter-individual variation of plasma levels of LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C). The mechanism by which expression of PCSK9 modifies LDLR number is not known. Lagace et al. (J Clin Invest 116:2995) have demonstrated that addition of PCSK9 to cells results in a decrease in LDLRs. We have previously defined the PCSK9 binding site on the LDLR. This summer, Megan will perform studies to determine how PCSK9 binding reroutes the receptor from a recycling compartment to the lysosome.

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students:

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