Master's Theses

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Date of Award

Fall 2002

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Advisor

Duane Hinton

Abstract

Noggin is a protein that is secreted from the Spemann organizer during embryological development. During normal development, Noggin functions to induce neural tissue and ventralize mesoderm and is required for proper development of the skeletal and central nervous system. These functions are brought about by the inhibition of dorsalizing agents, specifically, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Previous studies suggest that bone morphogenetic proteins control a variety of developmental processes, including axis formation, mesenchymal epithelial interactions, apoptosis consistent with pattern formation, and differentiation of mesenchymally derived structures. Studies have shown the expression pattern of BMP-2 and -4 by in situ hybridization to be localized in the developing heart, as well as a number of other sites suggesting that BMP-2 and BMP-4 function during cardiac development. In order to confirm or refute this hypothesized role for BMP, we have attempted to produce a recombinant form of the BMP-2 and BMP-4 inhibitor protein, noggin. Using this recombinant noggin, it will be possible to inhibit BMP function in developing chick embryos and examine potential cardiac defects.

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Rights

© 2002 Jennifer F. Hackney

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