This MQP researched transcription factor YY1 in B-cells, which is thought to be a master regulator of germinal center (GC) formation. GCs within lymphoid tissues are important areas of B-cell proliferation and differentiation, and are essential for a B-cell immune response. This immune response was studied by creating YY1-null mice lacking this key transcription factor. Using a cre/lox recombination system, mice were bred to become GC YY1-null. Fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) was performed for GC proteins GL-7 and CD-95 to quantitate changes in GC numbers. The results showed that stimulation of the mouse immune system with sheep red blood cell injection increases GC numbers, and deletion of YY1 causes GC numbers to decrease, suggesting that YY1 is important for GC formation.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Ciesluk, Brittany Alexa

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-043015-154122

Advisor

• Adams, David S.

Year

• 2015

Sponsor

• University of Massachusetts Medical Center

Date created

• 2015-04-30

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright