In eukaryotic cells, newly synthesized proteins enter the secretory pathway at the
endoplasmic reticulum (ER) where they first assume their folded state. Because
proper protein folding is essential for cell survival, accumulation of unfolded or
misfolded proteins at the ER is known as ER stress, and contributes to numerous
diseases from cystic fibrosis to diabetes. The goal of this course is to study cell
response to ER stress using yeast as a model system. Students will learn to perform assays to detect ER stress, measure mitochondrial ROS generation, and assess mitochondrial
remodeling. Students will also participate in a yeast genetic screen to characterize
the cellular machinery that promotes an adaptive mitochondrial response to ER
stress.