Investigating The Mechanisms Underlying Metamorphosis in The Chordate Ciona Robusta
Author(s)
Johnson, Christopher
Advisor(s)
Stolfi, Alberto S.
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Abstract
In our study, we investigate the multifaceted roles of papillae in tunicate larvae, pivotal for sensory perception, adhesion, and metamorphosis regulation, particularly in the model organism Ciona. Through molecular marker identification and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis, we delineate the intricate cellular diversity within papillae, elucidating the regulatory networks orchestrated by key transcription factors and signaling pathways. Concurrently, we explore the evolutionary divergence in the expression patterns of Myomaker (Mymk), a fusogenic factor crucial for myoblast fusion and muscle multinucleation, between vertebrates and tunicates. By analyzing cisregulatory sequences of Mymk, we unveil the underlying mechanisms driving the differential spatiotemporal expression patterns in these organisms. Our findings not only deepen our understanding of tunicate development but also provide insights into the evolutionary history of myoblast fusion regulation across chordates.
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Date
2024-04-29
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Dissertation