Medical Student Research Fellowship for Summer 2010

Mentor: Bruce Carr MD / Karen Bradshaw MD
Department: OB/GYN
Room number: J6.114
Mail Code: 9032
Phone number: 214-648-4747
E-mail: Bruce.Carr@UTSouthwestern.edu, Karen.Bradshaw@UTSouthwestern.edu
Project title: CYP17 Expression in Placenta

Human subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable):

Animal subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable):

Project Type basic research

Brief Description of Project:

The human placenta produces large amounts of progesterone and estrogens. It is generally believed that the human placenta lacks the enzyme CYP17 and thus the ability to generate androgens. In our laboratory we have found that the placenta does express CYP17 and is capable to produce androgens.

Experimental Interests of the laboratory:
Further characterize CYP17 expression and generation of steroids in placental cells and a choriocarcinoma cell line
Elucidate the cellular pathways that control CYP17 expression
Investigate the possible autocrine and paracrine effects of HCG on CYP17 expression and androgen production
Evaluate the effect of steroids/cortisol in CYP17 and HCG expression
Evaluate the effect of insulin in CYP17 expression

Methods:
Cell culture techniques
Analysis of media by radioimmuno assays for the presence of steroids
Collection of cells for protein isolation and measurement
Western Blots
Isolation of cells for RT-PCR

Expectations:
Solid commitment for >10 weeks
Although the student will be instructed on how to perform the above methodologies, a self-directed and inquisitive person would be most successful in our laboratory
Willingness to participate in the analysis, interpretation and presentation of the data

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students: