Grady Pierroz, Genetics & Plant Biology

Faculty Mentor: Chelsea Specht

How Does the Tissue Culture Process Affect DNA Methylation?

The process of tissue culture should in theory lead to the development of exact clones of the parental plant. However, phenotypically aberrant plants are often produced that might be due to changes in the methylation profile of the plant’s genome due to stresses during tissue culture. Experiments outlined in this proposal will look at DNA methylation patterns at three different points in the tissue culture process of banana.

SPUR has been such an invaluable learning experience for me. It has been so nice to get out of the classroom and see a little bit of what it’s like to be a scientist rather than just a student of science. SPUR has allowed me to develop practical skills, become comfortable with scientific literature and learn about the nuances of doing novel research. But I feel the most important thing I’ve gained from SPUR is the opportunity to be surrounded by wonderful mentors and be given a chance to become a part of such an awesome community.

— Grady Pierroz