A2: Ack, Src, and Csk as regulators of Drosophila intestinal stem cell function

 

Bruce Edgar 

 

The non-receptor tyrosine kinases, Ack and Src, disrupt intestinal homeostasis by promoting the rapid, unchecked proliferation of intestinal stem cells (ISCs), whilst at the same time suppressing their differentiation. Elucidating the underlying causes of this phenotype should advance our understanding of ISC function. To this end we will survey the effects of Ack and Src on cell signaling, cell polarity and adhesion, cytoskeletal organization, and endocytosis in the ISCs. To further understand these gene functions, and extend the project to future studies, we will also perform genetic screens for modifiers of Ack- and/or Src-driven ISC hyperplasia.