Biomedical Sciences ETDs
Publication Date
Fall 12-15-2024
Abstract
The regulation of intermolecular interactions is essential for orchestrating
complex cellular processes. By modulating molecular interactions at the interface
between the intracellular and extracellular space, the tetraspanin proteins control
diverse processes fundamental to the biology of multicellular life, including cell
adhesion and signaling. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a key
player in myriad developmental and pathological processes, and the receptor’s
spatial organization underlies its ability to signal. Here, we use super-resolution
microscopy to study the mechanisms by which tetraspanin CD82 regulates EGFR
organization and signaling. We find that CD82-EGFR interactions play a critical
role in regulating the receptor’s activation and modulating downstream outcomes.
Additionally, we identify a role for EGFR in Acute Myeloid Leukemia, where the
receptor promotes the survival of leukemia cells following chemotherapy.
Collectively, our findings emphasize the importance of studying the regulation of
molecular interactions to further our understanding of cell biology and human
health.
Keywords
Tetraspanin, CD82, EGFR, Super-resolution Microscopy, Cell biology, Cancer
Document Type
Dissertation
Language
English
Degree Name
Biomedical Sciences
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program
First Committee Member (Chair)
Diane Lidke
Second Committee Member
Jennifer Gillette
Third Committee Member
Keith Lidke
Fourth Committee Member
William Curt Hines
Recommended Citation
Restrepo Cruz, Sebastian. "TETRASPANIN CD82 REGULATION OF EGFR ORGANIZATION AND SIGNALING." (2024). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/biom_etds/272
