Project Description
The Ubiquitin Carboxyl-Terminal Hydrolase L1 (uchl1) gene plays a role in protein degradation through the cell’s ubiquitin-proteasome system. Previous research in our lab demonstrated that Uchl1 protein expression is significantly upregulated in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) during recovery from optic nerve injury. This project aims to localize Uchl1 expression in two distinct compartments: the RGC cell bodies in the retina and the RGC axons at the site of optic nerve injury. Using a uchl1 knockout frog model will enable us to investigate the functional role of uchl1 during optic nerve regeneration.
Prerequisites
animal training
Special Comments
Independent study during winter
Project Information (subject to change)
Estimated Start Date: 6/08/2026
Estimated End Date: 8/14/2026
Estimated Project Duration: 10 weeks
Maximum Number of Students Sought: 1
Research Location: On campus
Travel Required? No (If “yes”: )
Contact Information: Fiona Watson (email: watsonf@wlu.edu)