Analysis of EPLIN function in early embryonic development and mouse ES cells

• Applicant: Dr. Ivan Bedzhov
• Subject Area: Developmental Biology
• Term: from 2017 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 351978311

E-cadherin mediated cell adhesion is essential for embryonic development and is specifically required for morula compaction and blastocyst formation. These morphogenic processes coincide with the establishment of the first cell types in the developing mouse embryo. E-cadherin connection to the cytoskeleton via EPLIN (Epithelial Protein Lost In Neoplasm) is extensively studied in vitro, mainly in cancer cell lines, however EPLIN function in vivo is not characterized. Using the mouse as a model system, we want to elucidate a potential role of EPLIN in early embryogenesis, maintenance and differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells, as well as to generate tools for analyzing EPLIN function in adult tissues.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants