Pharmacological Regulation of Protein Translation in Fragile X Syndrome

dc.contributor.advisorDussor, Gregory
dc.contributor.advisorPrice, Theodore
dc.contributor.committeeMemberDelk, Nikki
dc.contributor.committeeMemberPalmer, Kelli
dc.contributor.committeeMemberSapkota, Darshan
dc.creatorShukla, Tarjani
dc.date.accessioned2023-05-31T14:27:08Z
dc.date.available2023-05-31T14:27:08Z
dc.date.created2022-12
dc.date.issued2022-12-01T06:00:00.000Z
dc.date.submittedDecember 2022
dc.date.updated2023-05-31T14:27:09Z
dc.description.abstractThe behavioral hallmarks of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are driven by molecular mechanisms that remain largely unknown. One model of ASD involves the deletion of the Fmr1 gene. Mutations in Fmr1 cause Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and are the most common monogenetic source of intellectual disability in humans. The Fmr1 gene encodes for Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP). FMRP is a conserved RNA-binding protein that binds the ribosome and attenuates translation. Loss of FMRP results in aberrant protein translation. This genetic lesion results in widespread cognitive deficiencies, specifically with learning, memory, and social interaction. A deeper understanding of the mechanism driving FMRP-dependent synaptic plasticity enables identification of highly specific therapeutics that ameliorate core neurological deficits associated with the disorder. In FXS, eIF4E is hyperphosphorylated and has emerged as a therapeutic target. Yet, specific inhibitors of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Interacting Protein Kinase (MNK) have not been examined in the context of Fmr1 -/y mice. The goal of this research is to understand if compensation of FMRP loss can be achieved through manipulation of translation by the MNK-eIF4E regulatory axis. The results of this dissertation outline the viability of a novel therapeutic for the reversal of behaviors associated with Fragile X Syndrome, for which there are no FDA-approved treatments.
dc.format.mimetypeapplication/pdf
dc.identifier.uri
dc.identifier.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/10735.1/9716
dc.language.isoen
dc.subjectBiology, Neuroscience
dc.subjectBiology, Molecular
dc.titlePharmacological Regulation of Protein Translation in Fragile X Syndrome
dc.typeThesis
dc.type.materialtext
thesis.degree.collegeSchool of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
thesis.degree.departmentBiology - Molecular and Cell Biology
thesis.degree.grantorThe University of Texas at Dallas
thesis.degree.namePHD

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