Two Biochemistry Students Granted The Inaugural WVU HSC International Fellowship Award

The Office of Research and Graduate Education recently granted the inaugural WVU HSC International Fellowship Awards. These awards provide full stipend support and $2,000 towards professional development/travel funds. The proposals were reviewed by an internal study section made up of HSC faculty. The application process was highly competitive and showcased the growing talent that we have at the HSC.

Congratulations to the following students!

Urikhan Sanzhaeva, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Project Narrative: 

Mutations in β-tubulin 4B isotype (TUBB4B) have been associated with various ciliopathies in humans. Using a Tubb4b mouse model, we will determine the molecular mechanisms behind the defective formation or function of cilia and male infertility. The completion of the project will give insights into the human diseases associated with mutations in TUBB4B with the potential to develop therapeutic interventions.

Faezeh Moakedi, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Project Narrative: 

Phosphodiesterase-6 (PDE6) is the key effector enzyme in Phototransduction signaling. Cone and rod photoreceptors possess their unique PDE6 isoforms. The absence or functional defects in cone and rod PDE6, including mutations in the PDE6 lipidation motif, lead to various forms of vision loss in humans. Despite the crucial role of PDE6 in vision, mechanisms behind PDE6 assembly, PDE6 activation, and specifically, the role of PDE6 lipidation in these processes remain unknown. Our study will demonstrate the roles of lipidation in the assembly and activation of PDE6. Using our novel lipid deficient PDE6 mouse models, we will better understand the mechanisms underlying vision loss. Deciphering these detailed mechanisms is essential for the development of new therapeutic strategies for PDE6-related blindness.