Dr. 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.