Project 138: Expression Pattern and Functional Study of a Novel Peptide Encoded by Pri-miR-31 on Clinical Sample and Murine Model of Psoriasis Pri-miR-31
Contact Information:
Prof. Honglin Wang
Email: honglin.wang@sjtu.edu.cn
Project Description and Objectives:
Recent evidence has revealed that small polypeptides (usually containing fewer than 100 amino acids) can be translated from noncoding RNA (ncRNA) which is usually defined as an RNA molecule that does not encode a protein. We have discovered a peptide, which we termed MIPEP31, is encoded by pri-miRNA-31. Using CRISPR/Cas9, we introduced a point mutation leading to deficiency of MIPEP31 without affecting MIRNA processing. Mice with MIPEP31 deficiency result in decreased regulatory T cell (Treg) frequency and spontaneous colonic inflammation. Our work reveal indispensable roles of the peptide encoded by pri-miRNA on maintaining immune homeostasis by promoting Treg differentiation, and offers a potential means for modulating miRNA expression and treating autoimmune diseases. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting 2-3% of the general population. MIPEP31 could be promising candidate to treat psoriasis by promoting the differentiation of Treg. In this project, we intend to study the clinical relevance of MIPEP31 expression on clinical sample of psoriasis patient. Moreover, we intend to study the expression of MIPEP31 in different tissues and its therapeutic effect on mouse model of psoriasis. Our results will help us understand the pathogenesis of psoriasis and hopefully find a drug for psoriasis.
Eligibility Requirements:
An eligible candidate should be self-motivated and have
an excellent team spirit.
good English communication and writing skills.
basic knowledge on cell biology and immunology.
Experience in working with animal models is preferred.
Main Tasks
Animal model establishment.
Clinical sample collection.
MiPEP31 expression evaluation.
Therapeutic effect assessment.
Website
Lab: http://sii.shsmu.edu.cn/DetailMemberInfo.php?pid=6&cid=22&num=22&id=11