RPB1 promoter and UTR regulation

This research project focuses on regulating the levels of the catalytic subunit RPB1 of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) in complex eukaryotic organisms. Dr. Svejstrup’s lab has engineered a degradable cell line to rapidly adjust RPB1 levels, allowing the exploration of regulatory elements in the POLR2A gene. The aim is to identify promoter regions sensitive to the reduction of RBP1 protein. Simultaneously, the project aims to uncover specific regulatory elements in the 3’UTR region of RPB1 mRNA by developing a luciferase assay. The results will offer crucial insights into modulating RPB1 levels, expanding our understanding of molecular cascades involved in transcriptional regulation. This project aligns Dr. Svejstrup’s expertise in transcription regulation with Dr. Mallette’s in chromatin structure, cellular senescence, and cancer defenses. The methodology, including the luciferase assay, holds potential applications in biotechnology. A primer design for CRISPR–Cas 9 will also be developped, enabling precise gene editing. The in-depth understanding of transcriptional regulation may lead to therapeutic interventions, particularly in personalized medicine and in neurological disorders.

Faculty Supervisor:

Frédérick A. Mallette

Student:

Partner:

University of Copenhagen

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Université de Montréal

Program: