DaisyD’s BioBlog

During the current semester, my research project will focus on identifying the role of AU-rich elements (AREs) in the translational control of hIL-3. We have recently identified four different AREs in the hIL-3 3’UTR.  As suggested by experimental results described in last semester’s progress report, these elements have a regulatory role in the human IL-3 expression. As a continuation of this project, the translational efficiency of the reporter gene Luciferase harboring the hIL-3 3′UTR will be measured using Dual Luciferase assays and quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Also, mRNA stability studies will be performed for this reporter gene using quantitative RT-PCR. The studies for Luciferase translational efficiency will also be performed on Jurkat cells during their resting state, a T-cell-derived line. Finally, polysome distribution of luciferase constructs will be analyzed. Together, these studies will aid in unraveling the mechanism(s) that control IL-3 expression in humans.