| Popis: |
Cellular metabolism encompasses the totality of biochemical processes in the cell that governs energy homeostasis. These pathways are highly regulated and coordinate metabolic decisions to promote growth in response to changing environmental conditions. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways direct cellular growth through a series of phosphorylation events, yet how it impacts metabolism is poorly understood. We previously identified two MAP kinases to be essential regulators of growth and lipid homeostasis; however, how these proteins coordinate growth and lipid homeostasis remains unknown. We hypothesize that the transcriptional regulator LIN-61, which we identified in a genetic screen, opposes MAPK signaling. The aims of this study are to elucidate the mechanisms by which LIN- 61 influences cellular metabolism: 1. Determine if the DNA-binding activity of LIN-61 is required to oppose MAPK signaling. 2. Identify the tissue in which LIN-61 functions. 3. Identify additional cofactors that function with LIN-61 to regulate growth and metabolism. |
