CASPER Seminar Series presents Dr. Olufisayo Jejelowo, Global Progressive Network, Houston, Texas
| Date | April 10, 2015 |
| Time | 2:30 - 3:30 pm |
| Location | Baylor Sciences Building, Room C.206 |
| Description | Olufisayo Jejelowo, Ph.D. Director and Chief Research Officer, Global Progressive Network, Houston, TX Lecture Title: Activation of Inflammatory Pathways and miRNA Expression following exposure to High Energy Particle Radiation Abstract: Space radiation comprises galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events that are capable of causing cellular damage. Exposure to ionizing radiation (IR) causes increased ionization in the cells and tissues that severely affects the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and bone marrow. Chronic irradiation causes cancer, birth anomalies, erythema, and dysfunctions to almost all organs of the body depending on the total dose and site of irradiation. Understanding the mechanism of cellular response to proton-derived IR is vital for determining health risks to astronauts during space missions. Ionizing radiation has been shown to activate the pro-inflammatory transcription factor Nuclear Factor-kappaB that regulates the expression of over 200 genes that control the immune system, growth, and inflammation. To study the effect of high-energy particle radiation on NF-B activation, numerous tissues were dissected from Balb/c mice after exposure to high-energy particle radiation at 0.1, 1, and 2 Gy and frozen in liquid nitrogen. The tissue samples were analyzed for the activation of NF-B and its regulated gene products by Western blot. Results demonstrated that 1 and 2 Gy exposures to high-energy radiation induced the activation of matrix metalloproteinase 9 and cyclooxygenase-2 through the activation of NF-κB. The effect of proton radiation on microRNAs in testis, brain and liver tissues was also investigated. Results suggest tissue specific changes in the pattern of RNA expression in response to proton radiation. Results are discussed in terms the role of miRNAs in cellular defense against exogenous stress and their involvement in the generalized cellular response to oxidative stress. For more information, contact Sherri Honza at 254-710-1271 Download Flyer |
| Publisher | Center for Astrophysics, Space Physics & Engineering Research (CASPER) |
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