In Vitro Studies of Cultured Kidney Cells
Students will discover new signal transduction pathways in kidney disease and cancer.
Project description
Students will be provided the opportunity for in-depth independent undergraduate research to study signal transduction mechanisms controlling the growth and differentiation of cultured kidney tubule epithelial cells in a hormonally defined, serum-free medium. Underlying methods are in the areas of Cell and Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry. The effects of hormones and growth factors on growth, development and differentiated functions will be examined. Projects are relevant to understanding the basis of renal diseases including renal cancer.
Project outcome
Students will develop hypotheses, and design experiments to test their hypotheses, and make an original contribution. Students will learn to analyze their results, and present their results, and determine whether the results are consistent with their hypotheses.
Project details
| Length of commitment | To be determined by student/mentor |
| Start time | Anytime |
| In-person, remote, or hybrid? | Hybrid |
| Level of collaboration | Generally students have individual projects but may collaborate with other students. |
| Benefits | Potential academic credit |
| Who is eligible | All undergraduate students with a course background in cell and molecular biology, as well as basic laboratory courses in topics such as chemistry, biochemistry and/or genetics. |
Project mentor
Mary Taub
Professor;
Biochemistry Department
519 Biomedical Research Building, 3435 Main St., Bldg. 26
Phone: (716) 829-3300
Email: biochtau@buffalo.edu
Start the project
- Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
- After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.)
Preparation activities
Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. After you’re approved to begin the project, your mentor will send the relevant materials. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase.
- Students should read journal articles obtained from Dr. Taub prior to starting their independent study.
Keywords
biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, kidney disease, medicine