DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/77T6-XQ18
Author ORCID Identifier
orcid.org/0000-0001-7148-2789
Defense Date
2017
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Human Genetics
First Advisor
Dr. Xiang-Yang (Shawn) Wang
Abstract
Abstract
THE CHARACTERIZATION OF CHIMERIC CHAPERONE FLAGRP170 AS A NOVEL RADIOPROTECTANT
By Tyler Nguyen, M.S.
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Virginia Commonwealth University, 2017
Major Director: Dr. Xiang-Yang (Shawn) Wang, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics
Radiation therapy (RT) is restricted by toxic effects on adjacent normal tissue, which limits RT efficacy in cancer treatment. Damage to normal tissue, such as radiosensitive intestine and bone marrow compartments, results in acute radiation damage. To reduce normal tissue injury in the setting of RT, we examine the potential radioprotectant, Flagrp170, a chimeric protein. Flagrp170 is comprised of glucose-regulated protein-170 (Grp170) and a NF-κB activating sequence derived from flagellin. We show that Flagrp170 can protect normal tissues post irradiation, indicated by TUNEL and clonogenic assays. However, treatment with Flagrp170 does not influence tumor response to RT. Studies indicate that Flagrp170 activates the transcription factor NF-κB, a strong pro-survival signal. In addition, Flagrp170 can induce production of radioprotective cytokines as well. Data suggests that Flagrp170 has potential as a novel radioprotectant in the setting of RT. The combination of Flagrp170 therapy and RT may lead to improved treatment outcomes.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
8-10-2017