Non-Canonical Functions of Complement in Health and Disease

Zoom image: Microscopic image of kidney section samples Microscopic image of kidney section samples.

Can complement be modulated to stop disease in its tracks? 

Project description

We are studying the role of the complement system in kidneys and brains during health and disease. Traditionally, major complement proteins were shown to be generated by the liver and are functional in the serum. Very recently, work from our lab and others have shown that complement proteins are also generated by other tissues/cells. We are studying the role of complement proteins in these new locations. This is very important since complement is being included as a therapeutic in different diseases. 

Project outcome

Students will work on projects that will give them insights into role of complement in brain and kidney in different settings.

They will present the data obtained at meetings as posters and talks, and when  the data is used in publications the students will be co-authors of the manuscripts.

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment Longer than a semester (about 6-9 months)
Start time Spring 2022 (February) 
In-person, hybrid, or remote? In-person project
Level of collaboration Small group project (2-3 students)
Benefits Research experience; academic credit; possible stipend
Who is eligible All undergraduate students 

Project mentor

Jessy Alexander

Professor

Medicine

8030D Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC) - 875 Ellicott St. (Downtown Buffalo)

Email: jessyale@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
Start the Digital Badge

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

Keywords

Medicine