Characterization of the function of Gbp2 and Tcg1 proteins as candidate telomeric proteins of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica

Telomeres are nucleo-protein structures at the ends of chromosomes that are essential for preserving genomic integrity. Although many protein components of telomeres are known, their nature was studied in a relatively narrow range of organisms. The proposed research is aimed at the identification of novel players involved in telomere maintenance in a nonconventional yeast species Yarrowia lipolytica as it was shown that, compared with traditional model organisms, it employs a different set of proteins to protect chromosomal ends. The objective of the project is to analyze the potential telomeric functions of two candidate proteins, Tcg1 and Gbp2, that seem to protect the terminal single-stranded part of Y. lipolytica telomeres. The expertise of the host laboratory in a detailed analysis of yeast telomeres will be highly instrumental in obtaining experimental evidence if Tcg1 and/or Gbp2 indeed play a role in telomere maintenance, thus expanding the repertoire of factors protecting genome stability in eukaryotic organisms.

Faculty Supervisor:

Raymund Wellinger

Student:

Partner:

Comenius University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Life Sciences (not health); Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Université de Sherbrooke

Program: