Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process in which cells transition from an adhesive state within a cohesive tissue to a migratory, individualistic phenotype. This project investigates the roles of the transcription factors Snail and Twist in inducing EMT when expressed ectopically in Drosophila embryos. Using a GAL4-UAS system to drive overexpression, along with fluorescent markers to visualize expression patterns, we examine how these factors influence cellular behaviors such as adhesion, cytoskeletal organization, and migration. By analyzing proteins including actin, myosin, and E-cadherin, we aim to characterize the mechanistic changes underlying EMT and determine whether cells migrate in coordinated groups or disperse individually. Additionally, we compare the effects of combined versus individual expression of Snail and Twist to better understand their distinct and cooperative roles. Ultimately, this work seeks to provide a more detailed, mechanistic understanding of how these transcription factors regulate EMT.

I am participating in SuperUROP because I want to gain research experience in machine learning and computational biology, enabling me to contribute to real-world biomedical challenges and
develop skills that are essential for graduate school and an academic career.