Osteoclastic Pannexin1 in Young and Old Mice

Pannexins (Panx1, 2 and 3) are membrane channels involved in movement of critical molecules like ATP and are essential for skeletal development. Evidence shows that Panx1 is expressed in bone resorbing cells; osteoclasts. The purpose of this study is to determine whether Panx1 deletion from osteoclasts has an effect on the skeleton. Preliminary data shows a decrease in bone mass at 6 weeks of age in both male and female animals. Overall, the idea is to understand the cellular basis for this reduced bone mass in vivo and whether the effects of Panx1 deletion from osteoclasts observed in young mice are maintained in aged mice.."

Mentor: Lillian Plotkin