Dr. Aimin Liu

head shot of Dr. Aimin LiuDr. Aimin Liu

Associate Professor

Department:  Biology
College:  Eberly College of Science
Address:  104C Life Sciences Building
Phone:  814-865-7043
E-mail:  axl25@psu.edu
Website: sites.psu.edu/axl25

Tmem132a and Caudal Regression Syndrome

Caudal Regression Syndrome (CRS) is a congenital condition affecting many organ systems including caudal spinal cord, vertebrae, pelvis, legs, GI tract, urinary tract and genitalia. Although a few models have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of this condition, they have failed to explain the wide spectrum of CRS symptoms. We have established Tmem132a mutant mouse as a CRS model, and found that the primary defect leading to CRS is failed hindgut extension. Molecularly, Tmem132a interacts with known PCP regulators to promote elongation of the early embryos.