Characteristics that make stem cells unique are their long-term capacity to renew themselves and to produce highly
differentiated cells. Exactly these properties make stem cells a potent source for regenerative medicine. Knowledge
of the molecular mechanisms that specify stem cell identity and regulate stem cell self-renewal and differentiation
will make important contributions to our ability to harness the vast potential of stem for regenerative medicine. The
Drosophila male germ line has been established as a premier model system in which to study the mechanisms that
regulate stem cell behavior in the context of their natural environment. Most recently this system has been used to
demonstrate that supporting cells provide a crucial microenvironment that regulates both stem cell self-renewal and
differentiation. During my postdoctoral training in the lab of Dr. Margaret T. FULLER I propose to identify new
components and molecular mechanisms that regulate stem cell behavior using the germ line of Drosophila as a
genetic model system. My project includes the phenotypic and molecular characterization of two new mutants
affecting germ line stem cell regulation. In parallel, I will undertake a genome-wide forward genetic screen to
identify new genes required cell autonomously to specify stem cell identity, regulate stem cell division, self-
renewal, maintenance or differentiation. Results from this research may help guide future efforts to manipulate
stem cells in vivo and in vitro and so facilitate therapeutic stem cell applications in bioengineering and
regenerative medicine.