This project targeted gene expression in specific brain regions known to play a role in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Due to ASD affecting males four times more often than females, we compared the male and female gene expression in different brain regions. Specific brain regions were extracted and analyzed using a PCR panel containing 84 neurotransmitter genes to identify differences between males and females in gene expression. Gabrb3 was found to be significantly higher in females than males. siRNA gene silencing was tested in the second part of the project for studying functionality. In the trial, the injection of gene specific siRNA, Mapk1, was shown to completely silence expression of the targeted gene. This would be the next step in identifying which genes are specific to autism.

• 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

• Dougherty, Briana Elizabeth

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042308-202340

Advisor

• Gibson, Daniel G.

Year

• 2008

Sponsor

• Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Med

Date created

• 2008-04-23

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright