CIRM: Research InternAt — CIRM: Allele Biotech/Scintillon
Must be enrolled in BIOT 498 and a participant in the CIRM: Bridges to Stem Cell Research Program
Our lab has developed a first-in-class small molecule drug which can enhance liver and muscle regeneration. To further investigate this drug as potential therapeutic to enhance regeneration for diseases including liver failure (cholestasis), muscular dystrophies, and age-associated sarcopenia, CIRM interns will test this drug on human muscle stem cells from patients with various dystrophic diseases (Duchenne and FSHD) and on muscle damage in vivo models to study the efficacy and mechanism of action. Interns will examine whether drug treatment will rescue survival and healthy differentiation of dystrophic myoblasts into myotubes and myofibers, analyzing expression and morphology. Another research focus in our lab includes investigation of a new source of regenerative liver stem cells that we recently discovered. Specifically interns, will determine the role of Fgf signaling from the stem niche in regulating human liver progenitor cell differentiation, proliferative potential, and quiescence.
These projects have great training and educational potential by providing working experience with tissue specific human stem cells and with stem cells in animals, to address basic and translational questions, including cell signaling pathways and drug mechanism and validation/efficacy. Beyond experimental biology training, our lab’s educational program emphasizes critical thinking (such as understanding and designing experimental controls), independence, collaboration, creativity, and communication (written and oral). Students will participate in regular weekly lab meeting to present data and primary research articles.
mandatory safety training
Student apply through the CIRM Bridges Program
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 32 | hours per week |