Biology subjects

Pace, A.

Publications and source records attributed to Pace, A..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2022

An international scholastic network to generate LexA enhancer-trap lines for Drosophila

Conditional gene regulation in Drosophila through binary expression systems like the LexA-LexAop system provides a superb tool for investigating gene and tissue function. To increase the availability of defined LexA enhancer trap insertions, we present molecular, genetic and tissue expression studies of 301 novel Stan-X LexA enhancer traps derived from mobilization of the index SX4 line. This includes insertions into distinct loci on the X, II and III chromosomes that were not previously associated with enhancer traps or targeted LexA constructs, an insertion into ptc, and eleven insertions into natural transposons. A subset of enhancer traps was expressed in CNS neurons known to produce and secrete insulin, an essential regulator of growth, development and metabolism. Fly lines described here were generated and characterized through studies by students and teachers in an international network of genetics classes at public, independent high schools, and universities serving a diversity of students, including those underrepresented in science. Thus, a unique partnership between secondary schools and university-based programs has produced and characterized novel resources in Drosophila, establishing instructional paradigms devoted to unscripted experimental science.

genetics↗

bioRxiv2021

Conformable and robust force sensors to enable precision joint replacement surgery

Balancing forces within weight-bearing joints such as the hip during joint replacement surgeries is essential for implant longevity. Minimising implant failure is vital to improve patient wellbeing and alleviate pressure on healthcare systems. With improvements in surgery, hip replacement patients are now often younger and more active than in previous generations, and their implants correspondingly need to survive higher stresses. However, force balancing currently depends entirely on surgical skill: no sensors can provide quantitative force feedback within the hip joints small, complex geometry. Here, we solve this unmet clinical need by presenting a thin and conformable microfluidic force sensor, which is compatible with the standard surgical process. We optimised the design using finite element modelling, then incorporated and calibrated our sensor in a model hip implant. Using a bespoke testing rig, we demonstrated high sensitivity at typical forces experienced during hip replacements. We anticipate that these sensors will aid implant positioning, increasing the lifetime of hip replacements, and represent a powerful new surgical tool for a range of orthopaedic procedures where force balancing is crucial.

bioengineering↗

bioRxiv2019

Diagnosis of Centrocestus formosanus Infection in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): A Window on a New Globalization-Derived Invasive Parasite.

Centrocestus formosanusis a digenetic trematode with a complex life cycle, involving invertebrate and vertebrate hosts, humans included. In particular, it causes gill lesions and mortality in freshwater fish species, and gastrointestinal symptoms in infected humans. Here,we describe the occurrence of C. formosanus infection in zebrafish imported in Italy. Gill arches of 30 zebrafish were examined for the presence of encysted metacercariae under a stereomicroscope, and processed through molecular analyses targeting the ribosomal Internal Transcribed Sequence 2 (ITS2) using species-specific primers of C. formosanus. Encysted metacercariae were found on the gills of 20/30 zebrafish and all were identified as C. formosanus.\n\nDespite C. formosanus distribution was originally restricted to Asia, it has been subsequently reported in new countries, revealing itself as an invasive species, and raising important concerns for biodiversity, economy, animal and public health. Given the crucial role likely played by the ornamental fish industry in the spreading of this parasite, there is an urgent need for control measures to prevent the introduction and establishment of C. formosanus in non-endemic areas, Europe included. An adequate surveillance and health-monitoring program should be conducted in the development of microbiological and epidemiological approaches to diagnose and face these new globalization-derived invasive species.

microbiology↗