Date of Last Revision

2023-05-03 12:51:15

Major

Chemistry - Biochemistry

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2019

Abstract

Cuprizone is a copper chelator that induces demyelination in the central nervous system when fed to mice. This compound is thought to target Complex IV and disrupt mitochondrial metabolism leading to loss of myelin-producing oligodendrocytes. In this proposal, we further examine the chemical and toxicological properties of cuprizone. Immunofluorescence imaging and microarray data on MO3.13 cells treated with cuprizone revealed the possibility of alterations in lysosomal function, as well as mitochondrial disruption via mTOR and Electron Transport Chain (ETC) related pathways. Cell viability assays conducted suggest that addition of Branched-Chain Amino Acids, most commonly used from literature, leucine, can increase cell vitality after being treated with cuprizone. Additional studies examined the solubility of cuprizone and interaction with zinc. Taken altogether, this experiment reveals that cuprizone affects lysosomal and mitochondrial function, and provides insight into leucine supplementation at an attempt to rescue cells from neurotoxicity.

Research Sponsor

Dr. Leah Shriver

First Reader

Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri

Second Reader

Dr. Michael Konopka

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