Humans and nematodes – transparent, cylindrical worms – may be widely divergent species, but they have 7,000 genes in common. Working with the nematode C. elegans, this project investigates the function of some of these common genes. By “knocking out,” or removing some targeted genes, the researchers are able to identify what those genes do as the nematodes develop. This project will obtain targeted mutations, or knockouts, in 2,000 genes that are similar to human genes. Researchers around the world can then use those gene knockouts for further study. Dr. Moerman and his team are also improving the technology used to create gene knockouts.
This project is part of an international research effort to develop C. elegans as a model organism for research in collaboration with the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.
A SUMMARY OF THE OUTCOMES FROM THIS COMPLETED PROJECT IS CURRENTLY BEING CONSTRUCTED.
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