Examining mechanisms of the Wnt Signaling Pathway and the effect of BMP Signaling on the formation of the upper airways of the respiratory tract.

Abstract

By Lauren Leesman, Biomedical Engineering

Advisor: Debora Sinner

Presentation ID: AM_D14

Abstract: Atypical patterning of muscle and cartilage within the trachea can lead to congenital disorders such as Tracheomalacia or Complete Tracheal Ring. Previous studies show that the deletion Wls, a key regulator of the Wnt Signaling Pathway, abolishes expression of Sox9 resulting in tracheomalacia. Sequencing studies of this deletion revealed the downregulation of BMP signaling molecules, indicating a potential relationship between BMP signaling and Wnt Signaling. Through the deletion of BMP from the tracheal mesenchyme, we have been able to explore the resulting atypical pattern of the respiratory tract. These studies explore the relationship between BMP signaling and Wnt Signaling and how they may be working together to establish the specific patterning of the respiratory tract.