Submission Type
Poster
Abstract
The A431 vulvar cancer cell line undergoes a defined cellular transformation when treated with the corticosteroid clobetasol, marked by changes in cytoskeletal protein biomarkers indicative of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Replicated experiments demonstrate that this transformation provides a valuable model for studying protein interactions from a chemical perspective. To quantify these interactions, we employed surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) combined with gold nanoparticles, enhancing the detection sensitivity of cytoskeletal protein changes. By tracking protein dynamics and surface composition throughout the cellular transformation, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms underlying EMT. We have completed the data collection of A431 and A431D cells. Spectral analysis provided insights into the sequence of protein gains and losses, and comparison with established data revealed structural information related to protein folding, binding, and interactions. In addition, a three-dimensional SERS imaging technique was used to characterize alterations in the cytoskeletal proteins of individual cells. We conclude that a subtle differences were found in spectral features in the region between 250 cm – 1 and 1250 cm – 1 , reflecting the presence or absence of vimentin or cytokeratins.
Recommended Citation
Mathewson, Nicole, "237 - Investigation of Cytoskeletal Protein Reconstruction of Vulvar Cancer with Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy" (2025). GREAT Day Posters. 74.
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/great-day-symposium/great-day-2025/posters-2025/74
237 - Investigation of Cytoskeletal Protein Reconstruction of Vulvar Cancer with Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
The A431 vulvar cancer cell line undergoes a defined cellular transformation when treated with the corticosteroid clobetasol, marked by changes in cytoskeletal protein biomarkers indicative of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Replicated experiments demonstrate that this transformation provides a valuable model for studying protein interactions from a chemical perspective. To quantify these interactions, we employed surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) combined with gold nanoparticles, enhancing the detection sensitivity of cytoskeletal protein changes. By tracking protein dynamics and surface composition throughout the cellular transformation, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms underlying EMT. We have completed the data collection of A431 and A431D cells. Spectral analysis provided insights into the sequence of protein gains and losses, and comparison with established data revealed structural information related to protein folding, binding, and interactions. In addition, a three-dimensional SERS imaging technique was used to characterize alterations in the cytoskeletal proteins of individual cells. We conclude that a subtle differences were found in spectral features in the region between 250 cm – 1 and 1250 cm – 1 , reflecting the presence or absence of vimentin or cytokeratins.
Comments
Sponsored by Kazushige Yokoyama