Name

The role of extracellular matrix proteoglycans in diseases

University

Japan (IFMSA-Japan) - Aichi Medical University, Aichi

Domain

Biology

Departement

Institute for Molecular Science of Medicine

Head

Hideto WATANABE

Tutor

Hideto WATANABE

Languages

English

Duration

4 weeks

Availability

Cities/Months	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Augt	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
	No	No	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No

Type of Research Project

- Basic science

What is the background of the project?

The body is not composed solely of cells. There is a specific structure called the extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM not only supports cells and contribute to formation of tissues and organs, it regulates cell behavior by storing growth factors and cytokines, generating their gradient, and so on. We have been conducting researches on the structure and function of the ECM, especially focusing on a representative proteoglycan versican (Vcan). The title of the research is: The role of versican in diseases. We have generated various types of genetically modified mice of Vcan gene, and have performed their analysis. It technically includes mouse genotyping, morphological observation (regular histology, immunostaining, etc), biochemical and molecular biology analysis. The students participating in our project will learn a variety of techniques together with their background knowledge. Genomic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for mouse genotyping, cell culture, western blot analysis, morphological analysis including immunohistochemistry/immunocytochemistry will be used in the project.

What is the aim of the project?

We have generated various types of genetically modified mice of Vcan gene, and have performed their analysis. It technically includes mouse genotyping, morphological observation (regular histology, immunostaining, etc), biochemical and molecular biology analysis. The students participating in our project will learn a variety of techniques together with their background knowledge.

What techniques and methods are used?

Our projects are all long-term ones for years. Therefore, it would be difficult for foreign students to actively get involved in any of our projects. Nevertheless, the students will have valuable experience in the basic medical research field, while they won’t take a core part of the projects.

What is the role of the student?

- The student will observe the practical experiments but will be highly involved in the analysis of the results

What are the tasks expected to be accomplished by the student?

The student will be much involved in our lab work. There, he/she will learn basic techniques with background knowledge, which must be helpful for this/her future profession as a clinical doctor. The students will perform the experiments as follows. Genomic PCR for mouse genotyping, cell culture, western blot analysis, morphological analysis including immunohistochemistry/immunocytochemistry.

Will there be any theoretical teaching provided (preliminary readings, lectures, courses, seminars etc)

Although we don't setr any classes, we will do OJT.

What is expected from the student at the end of the research exchange? What will be the general outcome of the student?

- No specific outcome is expected

What skills are required of the student? Is there any special knowledge or a certain level of studies needed?

No specific outcome is expected from the student

Are there any legal limitations in the student’s involvement

No

Hours

8

Type of students accepted

This project accepts:
- Medical students

Articles

- none