Phospholipase Cb1 (PLCb1), a component of the mammalian G-protein signaling pathway, moderates binding between tau, associated with neurodegeneration, and cyclin-dependent kinase 18 (CDK18). Prior literature suggests that CDK18 phosphorylates tau causing it to aggregate. These aggregates comprise neurofibrillary tangles and contribute to the loss of neurite function that are a hallmark of Alzheimer's Disease. We previously found that PLCb1 binds CDK18 to inhibit its activity. To investigate PLCb1's role in tau aggregation, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and number and brightness (N&B) quantification were used. It was hypothesized that interfering with PLCb1-CDK18 binding would promote CDK18 tau phosphorylation and subsequently, aggregation.

• 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

• Romero, Kate D.

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042319-141656

Advisor

• Scarlata, Suzanne Frances

Year

• 2019

Date created

• 2019-04-23

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biochemistry

Rights statement

• In Copyright