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ABLE 2007: University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY June 5-9. Host: Ruth Beattie
E-mail: rebeat1@uky.edu
Mini Workshop
Friday June 9
Brizuela, Brenda
A modern approach to investigating the affects
of teratogens on early development.
I have developed an experimental embryology lab course which introduces basic
problems in developmental biology by direct experimentation and allows students
to conduct research on new genes that have not been previously described. In
addition the affects of teratogens has been an interesting area of study that
allows the students to explore normal verses abnormal development. This also
provides an opportunity for more advanced students to study how chemical exposure
during critical times of development can alter gene expression. The course
uses frogs (Xenopus laevis), chicks and zebrafish (Danio rerio) to demonstrate
the usefulness of model systems in research. Both classical embryology and
modern molecular manipulation of developing embryos are performed during the
lab period, accompanied by an interactive lecture and discussion period. Students
learn state of the art techniques by conducting experiments published in current
research articles. The course invites both senior undergraduates and graduate
students. Many first year graduate students take the class to learn techniques
they will use in their research. Undergraduate students also work in the research
lab on complementary experiments and help with preparations and observations
outside of the class period.
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