To determine the genes that are required for the formation and proper functioning of the adrenal gland. Methods include standard molecular and cellular biology with additional work with mice.  Specifically, we use DNA cloning techniques, PCR, transfection assays, agarose gel electrophoresis, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, immunoprecipitation, cell culture and histochemistry among other techniques. 

 

Student Tasks and Responsibilities: This list includes basic and more complicated procedures that the student can expect to learn.  Generation of cloning vectors (plasmid construction and amplification), breeding of mice, PCR genotyping of single and double transgenic mice, small animal (mouse) surgery and subsequent histologic examination of the adrenal glands, gel electrophoresis (agarose and polyacrylamide), cell culture.