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If you are interested in joining the lab, contact Duygu.
Research at the Özpolat Lab
What are the mechanisms of reproductive cell regeneration?
Reproductive cells are the cells that become eggs and sperm, and then have the potential to give rise to a whole organism. Many organisms (such as hydra, flatworms, earth worms, or sea stars) regenerate their reproductive organs and reproductive cells as a part of whole body regeneration. In contrast, humans and well-established research organisms lack this ability. The mechanisms of regenerating the reproductive cells are not understood but is one of the most impactful regeneration abilities. Understanding the mechanisms of regenerating this cell type would provide insight into the “mother of all stem cells”. The goal of our laboratory is to close this knowledge gap and define the cellular origins and molecular mechanisms of germ cell regeneration. What are the embryonic origins of cells involved in reproductive cell regeneration? Can any cell type regenerate reproductive cells, or are there limitations to which cells can replace them? How is the genome integrity maintained in regenerated reproductive cells?
To answer these questions, we combine many exciting techniques such as live-imaging, genome-editing, mRNA injections, and transgenesis. We use marine and aquatic segmented worms such as Dumeril's clam worm (Platynereis dumerilii), and the water nymph worm (Pristina leidyi).
Students and postdocs interested in molecular cell biology, regeneration and stem cell biology are welcome to contact Duygu.
The Role of Asymmetric Cell Division in Cell Fate Decisions
Annelid embryos undergo a highly regulated cell division program, where early embryonic cells “know” what cell types they will give rise to. We are interested in a specific lineage of cells called “4d” (or M) in annelids, because this lineage gives rise to the germline, mesoderm, and posterior growth zone stem cells. We want to understand how asymmetric divisions in 4d determine these important cell fates. This project involves live imaging, microinjections, single cell RNA seq, and similar omics techniques.
Students and postdocs interested in molecular cell biology, evolutionary developmental biology, and stem cell biology are welcome to contact Duygu.
Host-microbiome Interactions in the Context of Regeneration and Asexual Reproduction
We identified a resident microbiome population in Pristina leidyi. Combining advanced confocal microscopy techniques, we are working on projects to visualize the microbiome and different host tissues to identify where the microbiome resides, and how the microbes interact with the host. We have rotation projects available for students interested in host-microbiome interactions through the Plant Microbial Biosciences Program.