Utilizing fluorescent gene reporter SORE6 to read OCT4 and SOX2 gene expression in cancer cells

Session Number

Project ID: BIO 05

Advisor(s)

Elizabeth Tsui; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Dr. David Gius; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Discipline

Biology

Start Date

22-4-2020 9:10 AM

End Date

22-4-2020 9:25 AM

Abstract

Transcription factors OCT4 and SOX2 have been shown to play key roles in regulating embryonic and adult stem cell populations. SOX2, for example, is expressed early on in embryonic development, aiding in the development of the pluripotent blastocyst, and OCT4 is responsible for helping these embryonic cells maintain this pluripotent state. However, they are often overexpressed in cancer stem cells and are associated with tumorigenic properties including the abilities to proliferate, migrate, invade, metastasize, and resist chemotherapy treatments. There is strong evidence that suggests overexpression of these stem cell transcription factors contributes to tumor formation, development, and relapse following chemotherapy. A fluorescent gene reporter called SORE6 is able to identify cells who demonstrate OCT4 and SOX2 overexpression. Additionally, the SORE6 reporter is able to characterize cancer stem cells (CSCs) based on specific affected signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT pathway. By amplifying copies of the SORE6 reporter and infecting target cancer cells with the reporter gene, the reporter system is able to provide a visual readout for OCT4 and SOX2 gene expression. These measures of gene activity allow for a better understanding of the context of the OCT4 and SOX2 transcription factors in cancer development, progression, treatment and chemotherapy efficacy, and the development of new treatment options.

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Apr 22nd, 9:10 AM Apr 22nd, 9:25 AM

Utilizing fluorescent gene reporter SORE6 to read OCT4 and SOX2 gene expression in cancer cells

Transcription factors OCT4 and SOX2 have been shown to play key roles in regulating embryonic and adult stem cell populations. SOX2, for example, is expressed early on in embryonic development, aiding in the development of the pluripotent blastocyst, and OCT4 is responsible for helping these embryonic cells maintain this pluripotent state. However, they are often overexpressed in cancer stem cells and are associated with tumorigenic properties including the abilities to proliferate, migrate, invade, metastasize, and resist chemotherapy treatments. There is strong evidence that suggests overexpression of these stem cell transcription factors contributes to tumor formation, development, and relapse following chemotherapy. A fluorescent gene reporter called SORE6 is able to identify cells who demonstrate OCT4 and SOX2 overexpression. Additionally, the SORE6 reporter is able to characterize cancer stem cells (CSCs) based on specific affected signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT pathway. By amplifying copies of the SORE6 reporter and infecting target cancer cells with the reporter gene, the reporter system is able to provide a visual readout for OCT4 and SOX2 gene expression. These measures of gene activity allow for a better understanding of the context of the OCT4 and SOX2 transcription factors in cancer development, progression, treatment and chemotherapy efficacy, and the development of new treatment options.