PCV1-VP3 and its homologues in the Circoviridae family have the ability to selectively differentiate between normal and transformed cells. They induce apoptosis in cancerous cells through a possible CRM1-independent fashion. However, PCV1-VP3 is unique in the fact that it is localized primarily in the cytoplasm while its homologues, namely Apoptin, are not. PCV1-VP3 will be forced into the nucleus via an SV40 NLS and its killing capacity will be compared to that of Apoptin. Possible explanations for the unique localization will then be provided and possible future experiments to test these methods will be provided in an attempt to greater understand PCV1-VP3, which could ultimately create a more viable form of cancer treatment due to its p53 and CRM1 independent nature of apoptosis.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Mendes, Bryan Joseph

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-060117-164405

Advisor

• Heilman, Destin

Year

• 2017

Date created

• 2017-06-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biochemistry

Rights statement

• In Copyright