Presentation Title
Developing and Optimizing RNA Isolation Methods from Avian Tissues
Major
Biology
Access Type
Open Access
Abstract
Investigating tissue-specific gene expression first requires RNA isolation. This research seeks to develop and optimize multiple methods of RNA extraction from blood and gonadal tissues in several different avian species, including house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and northern jacanas (Jacana spinosa). Method variations include RNAlater vs. flash freezing tissue, homogenizer vs. bashing beads, phase separation vs. Zymo kit, and various temperature and time settings for incubation. Establishing effective methods for avian investigation of RNA will allow us to research how differential gene expression relates to phenotypic behaviors.
Faculty Mentors & Instructors
Sara E. Lipshutz, PhD, Department of Biology; Quinn Thomas, MS
Supported By
Dr. Johanna Harvey
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.
Developing and Optimizing RNA Isolation Methods from Avian Tissues
Investigating tissue-specific gene expression first requires RNA isolation. This research seeks to develop and optimize multiple methods of RNA extraction from blood and gonadal tissues in several different avian species, including house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and northern jacanas (Jacana spinosa). Method variations include RNAlater vs. flash freezing tissue, homogenizer vs. bashing beads, phase separation vs. Zymo kit, and various temperature and time settings for incubation. Establishing effective methods for avian investigation of RNA will allow us to research how differential gene expression relates to phenotypic behaviors.