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Explore the cell biological processes affected by AIP loss of function with an aim to identify novel therapeutics

  • Date: 2021-2025
  • Project leader: Xian Wang

Mutations in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein (AIP) gene account for 10% of cases with familial isolated pituitary adenoma (FIPA). The main features of patients carrying heterozygous AIP mutations include young-onset, large and invasive growth hormone and/or prolactin-secreting pituitary tumours, although a milder spectrum of presentation has been also described. In several animal models (mouse, fruit fly, round worm), homozygous deletion of AIP results in embryonic mortality. In mice abnormal cardiac development has been observed. In my project, I will use zebrafish as study model and CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing tool to study the biological processes underlying AIP loss of function, as well as identifying potential therapeutic targets.

Project in collaboration with Professor Márta Korbonits