Exploring Masp1 and BMP4 Interactions During Xenopus Gastrulation
Faculty Mentor Information
Heather Ray, Idaho State University
Presentation Date
7-2025
Abstract
Mutations in the MASP1 gene can result in 3MC syndrome, a developmental disorder that presents with craniofacial abnormalities and cognitive impairment. Within its well-characterized role in the innate immune system, MASP1 acts as a serine protease that can cleave a multitude of substrates. However, MASP1 cleavage of substrates during embryonic development are unknown. Using Xenopus laevis as a model organism, we aim to understand how Masp1 functions during embryonic development. Previous research has shown that BMP4 signaling influences ectodermal specification, during gastrulation, contributing to neural and craniofacial tissue formation. Our data suggest that Masp1 modulates BMP4 signaling to ensure proper ectodermal specification. Here, we are performing in situ hybridization using BMP4 RNA probes to assess changes in BMP4 expression patterns in embryos in response to Masp1 overexpression and knockdown. In addition, we aim to identify Masp1-interacting proteins, particularly those involved in BMP4 signaling, using co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry. As a first step, we are performing western blot analysis to identify antibodies that recognize Masp1 and characterize Masp1 protein levels in gastrulating embryos. Through these experiments we will identify molecular mechanisms underlying the Masp1/BMP4 interaction and advance our understanding of how MASP1 mutation leads to 3MC Syndrome patient phenotypes.
Exploring Masp1 and BMP4 Interactions During Xenopus Gastrulation
Mutations in the MASP1 gene can result in 3MC syndrome, a developmental disorder that presents with craniofacial abnormalities and cognitive impairment. Within its well-characterized role in the innate immune system, MASP1 acts as a serine protease that can cleave a multitude of substrates. However, MASP1 cleavage of substrates during embryonic development are unknown. Using Xenopus laevis as a model organism, we aim to understand how Masp1 functions during embryonic development. Previous research has shown that BMP4 signaling influences ectodermal specification, during gastrulation, contributing to neural and craniofacial tissue formation. Our data suggest that Masp1 modulates BMP4 signaling to ensure proper ectodermal specification. Here, we are performing in situ hybridization using BMP4 RNA probes to assess changes in BMP4 expression patterns in embryos in response to Masp1 overexpression and knockdown. In addition, we aim to identify Masp1-interacting proteins, particularly those involved in BMP4 signaling, using co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry. As a first step, we are performing western blot analysis to identify antibodies that recognize Masp1 and characterize Masp1 protein levels in gastrulating embryos. Through these experiments we will identify molecular mechanisms underlying the Masp1/BMP4 interaction and advance our understanding of how MASP1 mutation leads to 3MC Syndrome patient phenotypes.