DNA Methylation Status of Specific microRNA Genes Significant in the Development and Pathology of Alzheimer's Disease

DNA Methylation Status of Specific microRNA Genes Significant in the Development and Pathology of Alzheimer's Disease

Jerry Falwell Library, Lower Esbenshade Atrium

Research suggests that changes in DNA methylation status contribute to the development and pathology Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). This study will use qPCR with differentially digested DNA to confirm the results of microarray hybridization studies. Specific qPCR primers will be designed to analyze the methylation status of specific microRNA genes. These genes were identified in previous gene ontology studies as having significance in the development and pathology of AD. While previous studies have analyzed the cytosine methylation status of the genomes of other model systems, this study retains novelty though the use of a transgenic mouse model of AD and a focus on microRNA genes. Additionally, the gene ontology efforts represent a major step in the quest to understand the links between epigenetic modifications and AD. The goal is to establish a list of specific microRNA genes that display significant changes in DNA methylation status and affect disease processes. Remarkable gene ontology results could set the stage for future clinical studies.