Kenzie Friedrich, “Developing Computer Model for Cell Signaling”
Mentor: Priyatha Premnath, Biomedical Engineering, Engineering & Applied Science (College of)
Poster #34
Yes-associated protein and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif, are collectively known as YAP/TAZ proteins. Their activation is the most prevalent as a result of the HIPPO signaling pathway but can also be activated independent of the pathway. Among gene expression and wound healing YAP/TAZ proteins have a strong connection with single cellular mechanotransduction. Extra cellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and shear flow on cells can influence the transduction of the YAP/ TAZ proteins and associated pathways. In using the computer modeling software, Vcell, simulations of the YAP/TAZ proteins and their associated pathways can be performed. In modeling those pathways, ECM stiffness affected by the elastic modulus of biomaterials and other tissues may impact gene expression and mesenchymal stem cell differentiation. Utilizing cell signaling pathway modeling, values and conditions for ECM stiffness may predict resulting gene expression. Primarily, in the differentiation of chondrocytes into osteocytes for bone tissue regeneration via biomaterials. Thus, a model was developed for cell signaling of proteins responsible for mechanotransduction to be analyzed for tissue regeneration and the biomaterial for such purposes.