The purpose of this project was to determine whether first introns in C. elegans genes have an important role in gene expression. Gene expression is regulated by transcription factors (TFs) that bind to DNA sites within each gene. The first introns of 14 genes were assayed by a yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) system to see if any TFs bind. The promoters of most of the 14 genes were also tested for TF interactions. Eight of the introns had TF interactors, suggesting that introns are places where TFs bind and are involved in gene regulation. Interestingly, two introns shared TFs with their own promoters. To validate the identified interactions, more tests will need to be performed in vivo. Also, more first introns will be studied to make a general conclusion about their role in gene expression.

• 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

• Kordosky, Amanda Lee

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-043009-091904

Advisor

• Adams, David S.

Year

• 2009

Date created

• 2009-04-30

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright