Publication Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Committee Members
J. Ashot Kozak, Ph. D. (Advisor); Dawn Wooley, Ph.D. (Committee Member); Marjorie M. Markopoulos, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
Calcium signaling is a crucial regulator in many cellular processes, from immune response modulation to gene expression and apoptosis. Here, I have investigated the dynamics of calcium entry pathways, namely, store-operated calcium entry and store-independent calcium entry using a variety of cell types such as Jurkat T cells, HEK-293 cells and murine macrophages. Using fluorescence calcium imaging and selective inhibitor compounds, I have investigated the contributions of Orai and related calcium channels to calcium entry in both immune and non-immune cell types. The results demonstrate the pharmacological modulation of store-operated and store-independent calcium entry, showing the ability of compounds such as AE-19, AE-10, and EL-113 to inhibit calcium entry. Experiments involving membrane depolarization with elevated potassium concentrations confirmed that calcium entry through the plasma membrane is membrane potential-dependent. My results highlight the medical relevance of these channels, especially in the process of tubular aggregated myopathy, immune regulation and cancer. My studies may lead to therapeutics targeting calcium signaling pathways relevant to immune and muscular disorders.
Page Count
68
Department or Program
Microbiology and Immunology
Year Degree Awarded
2024
Copyright
Copyright 2024, all rights reserved. My ETD will be available under the "Fair Use" terms of copyright law.
