Roles of Structural MAPs in Cytoplasmic Organization (Biological Science)

奥姆斯特德博士的研究将主要涉及研究结构微管相关蛋白(MAP)在微管组织和功能中的作用。结合免疫学和高分辨率光学和电子显微镜的方法将被用来确定MAP 4在雄性配子细胞和分化成肌细胞中的分布。基因工程构建的细胞将被检测其对内源性微管阵列和其他细胞结构的组织的影响。反义实验产生的表型将被研究，以了解MAP 4的缺失如何影响减数分裂结构。还将进行微注射MAP 2与高尔基体相互作用的电子显微镜分析。还将进行初步实验，以鉴定庞氏裂殖酵母中的MAP 4同源物。主办机构的互动活动包括：介绍选择科学作为职业以及吸引和留住妇女进入科学领域的研讨会；关于细胞骨架-细胞器相互作用的研究生研讨会；入门和细胞生物学课程的客座讲座；以及参加每周的实验室会议和研讨会。该项目进一步推动了VPW计划的目标，即：(1)为妇女提供机会，在NSF资助的工程和科学学科中发展她们的职业生涯；(2)为受雇于工业、政府和学术机构的女科学家和工程师提供更大的知名度。通过鼓励妇女参与科学，这是对国家未来科学活力的宝贵投资。

Dr. Olmsted's research will primarily involve investigating the role of structural microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) in microtubule organization and function. Approaches that combine immunological and high resolution light and electron microscopy will be used to determine the distribution of MAP 4 in male gametic cells and differentiating myoblasts. Genetically engineered constructs transfected into cells will be examined for their effects on the organization of endogenous microtubule arrays and other cellular structures. Phenotypes generated by antisense experiments will be studied to see how absence of MAP 4 affects miotic structures. Electron microscopic analyses of microinjected MAP 2 interactions with the Golgi will also be carried out. Pilot experiments to identify a MAP 4 homolog in Schizosaccharomyces pombe will also be undertaken. Interactive activities at the host institution include: presenting a seminar on the choice of science as a career and the attraction and retention of women into science; a graduate seminar on cytoskeletal-organelle interactions; guest lectures in introductory and cell biology courses; and participation in weekly laboratory meetings and seminars. This project furthers VPW program objectives which are (1) to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in engineering and in the disciplines of science supported by NSF and (2) providing greater visibility for women scientists and engineers employed in industry, government, and academic institutions. By encouraging the participation of women in science, it is a valuable investment in the Nation's future scientific vitality.