Abstract

Mitochondria are the organelles that generate the energy for the cell. They are also critical regulators of apoptosis (programmed cell death). The activity and localization of mitochondria influence whether a cell lives or dies. We are using imaging techniques in order to gain insight into how mitochondria influence cellular health in two biological systems: mouse oocytes and embryonic stem cells. Post-ovulatory oocytes undergo apoptosis if they are not fertilized. We have characterized the pattern of mitochondrial distribution in mouse oocytes in relation to post-ovulatory age, and discovered that the mitochondria do not simply clump as an oocyte ages, but they swirl around the oocyte cytoplasm like a storm. Analysis of the mitochondrial storm may lead to a better understanding of oocyte viability. A long range goal is to extend the window during which an oocyte can be fertilized, perhaps by inhibiting the mitochondrial storm, a feat which would be of enormous interest to infertility clinics around the world. After fertilization, oocytes become embryos that are a source of embryonic stem (ES) cells. ES cells have the capacity to form any tissue type in the body. Selective agents may be used in order to encourage the growth of a particular type of cell such as neurons or cardiomyocytes. However, scientists are just beginning to understand the process of ES cell growth and differentiation. We are using a combination of imaging by the Keck 3DFM and FACscan analysis in order to correlate mitochondrial activity and localization with cellular differentiation. The results would help clinicians learn to maximize the therapeutic potential of ES cells.

Notes

Poster presented at the 2006 Validating TestBED and Research Posters on Real World Problems for I-PLUS Development Conference

Keywords

Oocytes, stem cells

Subject Categories

Mitochondria, Imaging systems in biology

Disciplines

Bioimaging and biomedical optics

Publisher

Bernard M. Gordon Center for Subsurface Sensing and Imaging Systems (Gordon-CenSSIS)

Publication Date

10-2006

Rights Holder

Bernard M. Gordon Center for Subsurface Sensing and Imaging Systems (Gordon-CenSSIS)


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