Project:

"Development of methods to introduce exogenous mtDNA into mammalian mitochondria

Students:

Korina Singh, Kiyan Fawaz

Institution:

Columbia University, Brooklyn

Mentors:

Delfina Larrea

Abstract:

Mutations in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene alter mitochondrial functionality by affecting interaction with the mitochondrial protein channel, VDAC1. We aimed to characterize the SOD1-VDAC1 interaction by constructing DNA molecules with mutant SOD1, which will allow us to learn how SOD1 regulates VDAC1 activity in vivo. These molecules were constructed using molecular biology techniques including PCR, enzymatic digestion, ligation and DNA purification. Three new DNA molecules have been created carrying SOD1-WT, SOD1-A4V and SOD1-G98A. This will allow us to better understand how mutations in SOD1 affect the SOD1-VDAC1 interaction and mitochondrial biology.

Poster:

Team samples: