Megan Yi

Project

Decoding Organogenesis: Unraveling the Role of E-Cadherin in Malpighian Tubule Elongation

In order to understand the mechanisms and processes underlying formation of complex 3D tissues, I will be using the Drosophila renal system as a model, the Malpighian tubules. These tubes are interesting to me as they elongate 4x their original length without any cell proliferation during embryonic development. In order to understand the process of elongation of these tubes, I will first need to understand the role of a protein part of the adherens junction, E-Cadherin. My project involves me observing for localization of this protein within the tubules using antibody staining, genetic tools, and fluorescent microscopy. I also use genetic manipulations to observe the requirement of E-Cadherin during elongation which yielded surprising results.

What I learned

I have project planning skills, know how to manage time, and when to take a good amount of breaks.

Advice for future applicants

Have confidence in your research and the hard work you have done. Talk about times you have gone up and beyond with your project and involvement because it is something to be proud of.

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