About This Project
I hope to study how a crucial protein found across the animal kingdom is molecularly organized during a small fish's parasitic defense mechanism!
Ask the Scientists
Join The DiscussionWhat is the context of this research?
How are collagen fibers differentially organized in fibrotic stickleback livers compared to healthy ones?
What is the significance of this project?
As the most abundant protein in animals, collagen can be used to heal… and to hurt. I’d love to know if differential organization is what sets “good” collagen apart from “bad” collagen!
What are the goals of the project?
Using Fast Green collagen staining and 3D microscopy, I aim to measure collagen fiber diameter, density, and uniformity across whole stickleback livers from both healthy and fibrotic fish.
Budget
Financial support would assist with the costs of Lightsheet microscope prep, training, and use at our University's microscope facility. The costs would support the above for two students, including myself (PhD student) and an undergraduate working towards their thesis.
Project Timeline
Samples were collected in September 2026, from over 140 lab-raised and immunologically-challenged stickleback. We also have access to samples stretching back over 20 years from 40+ populations of stickleback are available for analysis as well. Project is ready to begin as soon as the project is funded and reagents are ordered!
Jan 01, 2027
Begin Running Samples
Mar 01, 2027
Start Optimizing Protocol
Jun 01, 2027
Complete Lab Sample Analysis
Aug 01, 2027
Complete Field Sample Analysis
Meet the Team
Abigail Albright
Science can tell us where we came from, measure how our actions affect the world around us, and predict where life on earth is going… which is both fascinating and beneficial to all life!
Lab Notes
Nothing posted yet.
Additional Information
Evolutionary biology, molecular and cell biology, protein organization, structural immunology, host-parasite dynamics
Project Backers
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