Grant: Project Grant

Eukaryotic cells are defined in part by the presence of membrane bound organelles. Proteins and lipids are transported between these organelles on small membrane vesicles along specific routes. Cells interact with their environment via secretion of proteins and the uptake of proteins via the secretory and endocytic pathways, respectively. Therefore, these membrane trafficking pathways are essential for regulating the milieu of cell surface proteins that are involved in cell signaling (communication), nutrient uptake and regulation of cell physiology, and defense against pathogens. Defects in these pathways lead to a myriad of diseases, including lysosome storage disorders and are thought to greatly contribute to a host of neurodegenerative diseases. Using the genetically tractable model organism, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, we have identified and characterized an important regulator of endosome trafficking. Humans have two related proteins. The objective of this research project is to understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate these endosomal proteins in nematodes and humans. This will be a first step toward determining if these regulators might be suitable targets for manipulation of endosome trafficking in humans to correct diseases that result from defects in these pathways.