CAREER: Neuroendocrine Regulation of a Zinc Finger Protein

大脑下丘脑区域的细胞产生被称为肽释放因子和释放抑制因子的小蛋白质激素，它们作用于脑下垂体，以调节源自该组织的外周活性激素的合成和分泌。虽然下丘脑释放肽和释放抑制肽与垂体细胞上的受体结合并改变细胞内第二信使（如环AMP或钙）的水平是明确的，但将细胞内信使与基因表达改变联系起来的下游事件目前尚不清楚。赫尔利博士正在描述一种新发现的核内因子Zn-15，它可能被证明是第二信使系统和基因转录调节之间的重要联系之一。他正在确定锌-15表达的生理调节机制以及锌-15控制垂体激素基因表达的能力。这些研究将产生有关神经内分泌轴功能调节和生物体生长发育的新信息。在本职业计划书中，教育部分包括开发新的计算机辅助基础生物化学学习程序，并将这一强大工具的使用扩展到各级高等教育。此外，研究技能与计算机指导的重要整合将用于培养本科生对生化神经内分泌学的兴趣。这些努力将为学生提供独特的教育和研究机会，旨在培养新一代的研究人员和教育工作者。

Hurley 9600805 The cells of the hypothalamic region of the brain produce small protein hormones called peptide releasing- and release-inhibiting factors which act on the pituitary gland to regulate the synthesis and secretion of the peripherally active hormones derived from this tissue. While it is clear that the hypothalamic releasing- and release-inhibiting peptides bind to receptors on pituitary cells, and alter intracellular levels of second messengers such as cyclic AMP or calcium, the downstream events that link the intracellular messengers to alterations in gene expression are presently unclear. Dr. Hurley is characterizing a newly discovered intranuclear factor, Zn-15, that may prove to be one of the important links between the second messenger systems and regulation of gene transcription. He is determining the mechanisms involved in the physiological regulation of the expression of Zn-15 and the ability of Zn-15 to control expression of pituitary hormone genes. These investigations will result in novel information concerning the regulation of the function of the neuroendocrine axis, and organismal growth and development. In this CAREER proposal, the educational component includes the development of novel computer-assisted learning program for basic biochemistry and expansion of the use of this powerful tool into all levels of higher education. In addition, significant integration of research skills with computer tutelage is to be used to foster undergraduate interest in biochemical neuroendocrinology. These endeavors will provide the students with unique educational and research opportunities intended to develop new generations of researchers and educators.