Details
- Close date
- No date set
- Academic background
- Health Sciences
- Host campus
- Christchurch
- Qualification
- Honours
- Department
- Pathology and Biomedical Science (Christchurch)
- Supervisor
- Dr George Wiggins
Overview
Deletions overlapping the SULT1A1 gene have been shown to be associated with reduced breast cancer risk (RR=0.73, 95% CI 0.59-0.91) in BRCA1 pathogenic variant carriers. SULT1A1 function is known to be potently inhibited by ethinylestradiol (EE2), a synthetic oestrogen widely used in combined oral contraceptives.
This project aims to investigate EE2 impact whether BRCA1+/- cells treated with EE2 have reduced proliferation and reduced susceptibility to DNA damage. These will be assessed using immunocytochemistry markers, including PHH3, γ-H2AX and 53BP1 in isogenic (MCF-7BRCA1+/- and MCF-7WT) cell lines alongside SULT1A1 knockdowns.
Preferred student expertise
Science student with an interest in cancer biology and genetics, and preferably has laboratory experience.
This is one of a number of projects on offer for the 2024 intake of BBiomedSc(Hons) at the University of Otago, Christchurch campus.
Further information
- Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honours (BBiomedSc(Hons)) at the University of Otago, Christchurch
- Dr George Wiggins' profile page
- Mackenzie Cancer Research Group
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science
Useful information
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