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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://arks.princeton.edu/ark:/88435/dsp01d504rp664
Title: The Critical Impact of Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism on Branch Initiation in the Embryonic Avian Lung Epithelium
Authors: Topiwala, Safiya
Advisors: Nelson, Celeste
Department: Molecular Biology
Certificate Program: Global Health and Health Policy Program
Class Year: 2024
Abstract: In early embryonic development, energy metabolism is crucial in fueling biological processes such as cell signaling, proliferation, and differentiation. These processes correspond to spatiotemporal patterns of gene expression and mechanical forces. However, the necessity of spatial patterning of energy metabolism is still poorly understood. This study seeks to examine spatial variations in mitochondrial energy metabolism in the highly stereotyped branching system of the chicken lung. Here, we use immunofluorescence imaging to observe mitochondrial membrane density and high-resolution live imaging of mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial ATP density to measure spatial variations of energy metabolism during branch initiation in the embryonic avian lung. We use this technique to verify the efficacy of oligomycin inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. We find that inhibiting mitochondrial energy metabolism prevents branch initiation and generates a cyst-like defect in the trachea. Uncovering the relationship between patterns of energy metabolism and tissue morphogenesis, specifically regarding branching morphogenesis of the lung's airways, will improve our understanding of early embryonic development.
URI: http://arks.princeton.edu/ark:/88435/dsp01d504rp664
Type of Material: Princeton University Senior Theses
Language: en
Appears in Collections:Molecular Biology, 1954-2024
Global Health and Health Policy Program, 2017-2023

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