We are also investigating how the RISC participates in the 'egg-to embryo switch' that occurs at the midblastula transition when maternal mRNAs are degraded concomitant with the activation of zygotic transcription. Although the processing proteins are present in fully-grown oocytes, miRNA processing is not activated until progesterone-induced meiotic maturation is completed. The maternal mRNAs encoding Ago2, DGCR8, Dicer and Drosha are translationally repressed in immature oocytes. My research uses a combination of molecular, cellular and biochemical approaches to address the develop-mental regulation of miRNA processing and RISC function during Xenopus oogenesis and embryogenesis. The resultant pre-miRNAs are exported into the cytoplasm and converted to mature miRNAs by Dicer and bind to the Argonaute (Ago) family of proteins to form the RNA-induced-silencing complex (RISC). Primary miRNA transcripts are initially processed in the nucleus by the microprocessor complex comprised of Drosha and DGCR8.

miRNA biogenesis is a complex process involving distinct multimeric complexes that catalyze sequential RNA processing events. They are particularly important in silencing cell cycle genes that direct cellular proliferation. miRNAs potentially regulate as many as one-third of all protein-coding genes in vertebrates and have essential roles in controlling diverse aspects of cellular function in numerous physiological contexts. Students will be able to become more responsible consumers-and future producers-of media texts and imagery.MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally control gene expression by directing either the degradation or translational repression of target mRNAs.Students will be able to develop critical thinking, writing, and analytic skills through the production of an original research paper.Students will be able to address the role of new media technologies in challenging and/or reaffirming traditional constructions of gender.Students will be able to recognize the importance of diversity in media industries.Students will be able to examine the role of media in constructing gender and its intersections with race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality.Students will be able to interpret key theories and methods of studying media, power, and social identities.We will explore these topics through literature from sociology, communication and media studies, cultural studies, feminist theory, and internet/new media studies. Gender, power, and identity in a digital era of communication.

Gendered audiences and fan cultures and (4). Diversity in media industries and gendered labor markets (3). Mediated representations of gender, sexuality, and intersectionality (2). After introducing students to key approaches to studying gender and mediated communication, the course will cover topics in four subunits: (1).

This seminar addresses the intersection of communication, culture, and identity through an examination of gender and the U.S. Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2020-2021.

Uva courseforum comm 4260