Grant: Master's Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

mTOR is a protein responsible for a wide variety of cellular functions. mTOR controls how cells use nutrients and is involved in the repair of cellular damage. mTOR complex 1 is found on the surface of lysosomes and is known to control lysosome function and shape. Lysosomes are small, highly acidic organelles responsible for the degradation of a variety of cellular components. Rab7, a protein associated with lysosomes, is essential for lysosomal function and trafficking. Mutations of Rab7 are involved in a number of diseases including neurological diseases, disorders of lipid metabolism and certain types of cancers. The relationship between mTOR and Rab7 is unknown. Initial evidence from our lab suggests that mTOR negatively controls Rab7. First, we wish to investigate the connection between mTOR and Rab7 in cells. To address this, we are interested in analyzing the recruitment of Rab7 to the lysosomal membrane when mTOR is inhibited. Next, we hope to explore the structure of Rab7, particularly, the region that binds to the surface of the lysosome when mTOR is inhibited. Last, we want to see if there is a physical interaction between mTOR and Rab7. Investigating the interaction that exists between mTOR and Rab7 may uncover the importance of the lysosome in several metabolic and immune-related diseases. This research could also provide a novel link between membrane regulation (Rab7) and metabolic and stress sensors (mTOR).