Date of Project

4-26-2025

Document Type

Honors Thesis

School Name

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Biology

Major Advisor

Dr. Paul J. Kiser

Second Advisor

Dr. Mary B. Kroetz

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system classified by the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Males and females exhibit different symptoms however, the cause remains unknown. Through the use of a model organism, C. elegans, we will investigate an ortholog of a Parkinsonian gene, pdr-1, to explore whether or not there are statistical differences between the hermaphrodites and males through known behavioral assays such as Swimming Induced Paralysis and Basal Slowing Rate. In order to compare gender differences, we successfully conducted CRISPR, where we inserted the him-8 mutation, resulting in an increased population of males from less than 1% up to about 37%. To synchronize worm development, we have modified a procedure and methods from Kudumala et. al (2019) and have had consistent and accurate results. This procedure allows us to have C. elegans of the same age to eliminate age as a factor during behavioral assays. For the behavioral assays, we have been working with the Computer Science department to develop software to analyze and track the worms. Our results indicate that there is no statistical difference between the males and the hermaphrodites in the pdr-1; him-8 strain. However, there was a statistical difference found between the him-8 strain between both sexes, as well as when compared to the N2s. The pdr-1 data along with the pdr-1; him-8 data, were also not congruent with established literature, and the reason for this difference is unknown. Further experimentation needs and will continue to occur, to see if the results are repeatable or due to some underlying cause from the him-8 mutation. But if the reversal of differences present between the hermaphrodite and male worms are due to the pdr-1 gene, then it could ultimately reveal sex-based differences in humans being attributed to genetic reasons, which could allow for better and more personalized treatment options.

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