Degree
Master of Science
Program
Biology
Supervisor
Dr. Damjanovski
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is crucial for the development and maintenance of multicellular organisms. Degradation of ECM components occurs through the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors. Reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK) gene encodes a membrane-anchored protein and plays an important role in mediating ECM remodeling by inhibiting MMPs. To date, few in vivo studies exist examining RECK during development. The present study focuses on cloning and examining the expression of RECK during early Xenopus laevis development. A mature cDNA clone of the RECK gene was generated. RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry were used to examine the expression of RECK during development. RECK expression was low during gastrulation but increased during neurulation and into organogenesis. Furthermore, RECK was localized to the anterior and dorsal sides of the developing embryo. These results suggest an important role for RECK during late ECM remodeling events, such as neurulation.
Recommended Citation
Willson, Jessica, "Cloning and analysis of RECK during early Xenopus laevis development" (2012). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 971.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/971