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Capture of an adult male western bluebird to administer ID bands and collect measurements and samples

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Katelyn Cannon- Investigation of Stress Hormones on Embryonic Development

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Katelyn Cannon- Investigation of Stress Hormones on Embryonic Development

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A major focus of the Duckworth lab is discerning the link between maternal stress and the effect it has on offspring behavior. My project focuses on how the hormones deposited in the egg by female birds (specifically glucocorticoids) impacts the development of the embryonic brain.

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Performing the Fibroscan to get liver fat and scarring scores during my training. (Permission obtained)

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Arabella Andrade-Sanchez - Evaluating Liver Disease & Prevention Strategies in Native American Communities

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Arabella Andrade-Sanchez - Evaluating Liver Disease & Prevention Strategies in Native American Communities

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In Dr. David Garcia's Public Health Research Lab, I work with the Nosotros Comprometidos A Su Salud team to study liver health disparities in Native American and Mexican-origin populations. Despite Mexican-origin communities facing higher risks of obesity, diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), little is known about how sleep influences this health outcome for this population. My project as part of the Native American Cancer Prevention (NACP) program is to examine associations between poor sleep quality and liver disease in a Native American community. To examine these relationships, I used the Pittsburgh Quality Sleep Index (PSQI) and the steatosis/fibrosis scores measured by the FibroScan, a non-invasive tool. I helped data collection in the community by conducting informed consents, clinical assessments including height/weight and blood pressure, operating a DCA machine to assess HbA1c, conducting the FibroScan on participants, and discussing results with them. This work helps to highlight the impact of sleep on liver health outcomes for Native American communities. Findings can help to inform culturally relevant MASLD prevention and treatment strategies in the future.

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Examining the microfluidic human Bone-on-a-Chip model under the microscope. 

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Audrey Thompson - Optimizing a Microfluidic Bone-on-a-Chip for Studying Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis

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Audrey Thompson - Optimizing a Microfluidic Bone-on-a-Chip for Studying Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis

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Prostate cancer (PCa) always metastasizes to bone, a process that significantly worsens patient prognosis and survival. Unfortunately, progress in uncovering the mechanisms driving PCa bone metastasis is limited by the lack of physiologically relevant human model systems. Traditional two-dimensional cell culture models don’t accurately represent the bone microenvironment, whereas in-vivo animal models are constrained by differences in physiology between mice and humans. In Dr. Cynthia Miranti’s lab, I am optimizing a microfluidic human Bone-on-a-Chip model to study the mechanisms of PCa bone metastasis. The overarching goal of my project is to differentiate osteoblasts and osteoclasts within the microfluidic chip. I am currently investigating the effect of a bone-stromal matrix on osteoblast differentiation.

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Evaluating performance metrics of different trained models

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Nick Kaplan – Machine Learning for Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

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Nick Kaplan – Machine Learning for Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

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Alzheimer’s Disease is a growing problem in the US, and accurate and early diagnosis leads to better outcomes. In the Kenry Lab, I am investigating whether a machine learning model can be trained that can accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s when given diverse patient data, including imaging, genetics, and clinical mental tests.

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Performing column chromatography to purify and extract the resulting protein elution.

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Melody Kosters - Protein Production for RBC-Inspired Biomaterials

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Melody Kosters - Protein Production for RBC-Inspired Biomaterials

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In the Kim Lab, I am performing protein expression and purification using E. Coli. We are working with several proteins (produced via E. Coli) which are candidates for the synthesis of a Red Blood Cell (RBC) mimicking biomaterial. These proteins serve as building blocks for developing RBC-inspired biomaterials which may ultimately contribute to artificial red blood cells and targeted drug delivery systems. My role is to optimize the condition for production & dialysis of proteins to increase yield, prevent target protein loss, and determine protein solubility in various solvents.

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Looking through neural data to determine which spikes came from neurons vs. unrelated noise

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Ella Sweet - Investigating Time Perception in Rats

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Ella Sweet - Investigating Time Perception in Rats

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In the Cowen lab, we work with rats to determine what happens when dementia interrupts movement and sleep. My project focuses on how rats know when a time period (e.g., 5 s) has passed, and the difference in how rats with and without Alzheimer’s do this.

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Pipetting UV-exposed drug-treated cells to subsequently prepare protein and luciferase assays.

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Marcia Keller - Investigation of Skin Cancer Preventing Compounds

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Marcia Keller - Investigation of Skin Cancer Preventing Compounds

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In Dr. Dickinson's research lab, I am investigating the efficacy of a topical compound called BMS-202 for skin cancer prevention. BMS-202 inhibits the PD-L1 signaling pathway, which is closely connected to non-melanoma cancers, like squamous cell carcinomas. Through this inhibition, cancer cells in the skin can be targeted by the body's own immune system even after extended UV exposure. The applications of this drug would be incredibly beneficial to patients that are at high risk of skin cancer due to previous medical history. Within the lab, I extract RNA from skin samples, propagate cell cultures for experimentation, and prepare reporter assays.

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Performing column chromatography on pyridine product made with allene reagent. 

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Developing Novel Pyridine Structures for Drug Discovery

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Developing Novel Pyridine Structures for Drug Discovery

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In the Njardarson lab, I am working on the multi-step organic synthesis of a specific allene reagent. This allene is a key building block used in a reaction cascade to construct complex, functionalized pyridine structures. Pyridines are the most common nitrogen heterocycles found in approved drugs, and by learning how to make this specific building block, my work helps our lab develop faster, easier ways to build these structures so researchers can eventually use them to discover new drugs.

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Analyzing Menopausal Hormone Therapy’s (MHT) Effect on Proteomic Signatures of Alzheimer’s 

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Analyzing Menopausal Hormone Therapy’s (MHT) Effect on Proteomic Signatures of Alzheimer’s 

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In Dr. Vitali’s lab, I’m finding differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in women who’ve taken MHT vs those who haven’t from the UKBiobank’s dataset. Then I run gene set enrichment analysis and over representation analysis to determine which mechanisms those DEPs are most involved in. This exposes the mechanisms that are activated or suppressed in MHT users. Then, we relate these mechanisms back to Alzheimer’s disease. Ultimately, the goal is to develop a precision approach to Alzheimer’s disease prevention based on this data.

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Training my machine-learning model using a dermoscopic image of melanoma using Cellpose software. 

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Jamie Manuel – AI-Assisted Analysis of Dermoscopic Images for Melanoma Classification and Risk Prediction

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Jamie Manuel – AI-Assisted Analysis of Dermoscopic Images for Melanoma Classification and Risk Prediction

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In the Kenry Lab, I am developing an artificial intelligence model capable of analyzing dermoscopic images to detect, classify, and predict the risk of melanoma. Melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, making early and accurate diagnosis essential for improving patient outcomes. By combining image processing, lesion segmentation, and machine learning techniques, this project aims to develop reliable tools that can support clinicians in the early detection and diagnosis of melanoma.

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"Manually passaging patient-derived iPSC colonies in the biosafety cabinet using a micropipette tip."

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Aaron Tsai - Probing pathological mechanisms and sex-differences in human iPSC-derived cortical neurons from individuals with sporadic Parkinson’s disease

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Aaron Tsai - Probing pathological mechanisms and sex-differences in human iPSC-derived cortical neurons from individuals with sporadic Parkinson’s disease

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In the Madhavan Lab which studies aging and neurodegeneration, I am working alongside my mentor on the iPSC-derived cortical neuron project. The overall goal is to analyze disease mechanisms and sex-differences in patients with sporadic Parkinson’s disease. For this project, I am assisting with cell culture, including the coating, feeding, and passaging of cells. Additionally, I am running immunocytochemistry to confirm various biological markers. My overall goal is to better understand the effects and mechanisms of neurodegeneration.

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Creating a master mix to combine with DNA samples in order to determine the sex of a bird via PCR and gel electrophoresis

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Logan Good - Bird Nesting Sex Differences Impacting Invasive Parasite Preference

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Logan Good - Bird Nesting Sex Differences Impacting Invasive Parasite Preference

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In the McNew Lab of Ecology, the primary research focus is conservation. The Galápagos Islands are home to numerous unique species, but infectious diseases and parasitic organisms pose significant threats to their survival. My project focuses on the P. downsi fly and its parasitic larvae. The first objective of my project is to determine whether the fly exhibits a preference for male or female birds. Using this data, I will continue investigating strategies to mitigate severe parasitism in nestling birds and examine how the birds have undergone genetic change over the past 20 years.

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Preparing a PCR master mix solution to use for determining bird sex.

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Shellie Zamir- Exploring Sex-Based Differences in Pox Infections of Galapagos Mockingbirds

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Shellie Zamir- Exploring Sex-Based Differences in Pox Infections of Galapagos Mockingbirds

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In the McNew Lab, we study birds endemic to the Galápagos Islands, focusing on the relationships among these animals, their diseases, and their environment. My project involves analyzing patterns of infection to determine whether there are sex-based differences in the prevalence of avian pox (Avipoxvirus) in Galápagos mockingbirds. Avian pox is a viral disease that causes high mortality among several species of birds and may have severe consequences for small, isolated populations, so this research will hopefully contribute valuable baseline data to inform future conservation and wildlife management efforts

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Examining histochemically stained mouse lung slices for inflammation

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Isabella Dewyer: Investigating Drug Candidates for Asthma 

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Isabella Dewyer: Investigating Drug Candidates for Asthma 

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In Dr. Boitano’s laboratory I have learned both cellular- and animal- based techniques to evaluate novel drug candidates for asthma. Our work suggests that one candidate uniquely impacts cellular signaling such that it can reduce effects of allergen-induced asthma. Our studies provide a starting point for novel drug development in asthma.

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Bhuvi Mamtani - Investigating Ait1 Regulation of Dip1 Localization During Nitrogen Stress in Budding Yeast

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Bhuvi Mamtani - Investigating Ait1 Regulation of Dip1 Localization During Nitrogen Stress in Budding Yeast

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The Capaldi Lab investigates how cells sense and respond to stressful conditions, such as changes in nutrient availability, through the TORC1 (Target of Rapamycin Complex 1) signaling pathway in budding yeast. I am currently using live-cell fluorescence microscopy to study how the amino acid transporter Dip1 responds to changes in nitrogen availability and TORC1 signaling. Ait1 is a regulator associated with the TORC1 nutrient-sensing pathway and is thought to help cells adjust TORC1 activity as nutrient conditions change. By comparing Dip1 localization in cells with altered Ait1 activity, I aim to determine whether Ait1 affects how cells control amino acid transport and adapt to nitrogen limitation. Ultimately, this work will help us understand how cells coordinate membrane transport, metabolism, and growth when nutrients become limited.

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Sarah Hurley- Investigation of Cellular Dormant States

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Sarah Hurley- Investigation of Cellular Dormant States

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In the Yao Lab, I am conducting research to better understand the mechanisms that underlie permanent and non-permanent cell dormant states. Specifically, I research cells that have been induced into a permanent dormant state known as senescence. We are studying these cells to comprehend the molecular mechanisms behind senescence. This work aims to apply these findings to better understand the processes of aging.

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Slicing mice brains in preparation for immunohistochemistry. 

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Millie Vega - Using Terpenes to Improve Pain Treatment

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Millie Vega - Using Terpenes to Improve Pain Treatment

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In the Streicher Lab, we are finding new ways to treat pain. I study a terpene called beta-caryophyllene (BCP) in combination with an opioid, which has been shown to provide pain relief while reducing addiction related effects. I perform ICV cannulation surgeries in mice, which allow compounds to be injected directly into the brain. I also run conditioned place preference (CPP) assays that help measure addiction. Currently, I am working with my mentor to run CPP experiments to better understand the molecular mechanism behind this pain pathway.

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Analysis of recent droplet generation experiment 

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Zeke Pangelinan - Hydrogel Droplet Generation for Cancer Engineering Applications 

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Zeke Pangelinan - Hydrogel Droplet Generation for Cancer Engineering Applications 

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In the McGhee Lab, I am building tools that make tiny, gel-like droplets for cancer research. These droplets create consistent mini environments to study how cancer grows and responds to treatment. My project combines 3D printing, coding, and tiny fluid chips to make droplet generation possible.

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Visualizing antibiotic uptake under zinc stress using fluorescently tagged gentamicin on a confocal spinning disc microscope

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Christian Lopez - Investigating Synergy Between Zinc and Antibiotics

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Christian Lopez - Investigating Synergy Between Zinc and Antibiotics

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Due to increases in antibiotic resistance among bacteria, the Johnson Lab explores the antimicrobial properties of metals as an alternative. My project has found that Zinc enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics against Streptoccocus pneumoniae, a bacteria that causes pneumonia and meningitis worldwide.

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Kailey Reichardt – Investigating Social Hierarchy Perception in Rhesus Macaques

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Kailey Reichardt – Investigating Social Hierarchy Perception in Rhesus Macaques

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In the Gothard Lab, I investigate how rhesus macaques perceive social hierarchy by analyzing eye-tracking data. We present monkeys with videos of social interactions between dominant and subordinate individuals and measure where they look and how long they focus on different monkeys. By examining visual attention, our research aims to better understand how the brain recognizes and processes social status. This work contributes to ongoing research on how the brain perceives and responds to social information.

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Rylee Chung -  Modeling the human blood-brain barrier

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Rylee Chung -  Modeling the human blood-brain barrier

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The blood-brain barrier (BBB), a protective cellular network, regulates what is able to enter and exit the brain and an increase in permeability is associated with injury and neurological diseases. In Dr. Song’s lab, organ-on-chip platforms are utilized to better understand and more closely replicate the human BBB. The project I am working on uses computational fluid dynamics to simulate flow through a microfluidic chip to model the BBB.

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Running a practice of the single-pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) protocol on fellow lab member Shraddha Dwivedi

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Carol Chen - Investigating the Potential of Ketone Supplementation as a Primer for Neural Plasticity

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Carol Chen - Investigating the Potential of Ketone Supplementation as a Primer for Neural Plasticity

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Dr. Chou’s Lab investigates applications of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive technique that uses magnetic fields to influence brain activity. Specifically, I am working on a project with Shraddha to explore whether exogenous ketone supplementation can enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize, and act as a primer to strengthen the effects of TMS.

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UBRP Single Pulse TMS Stimulation Practice

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Administering L-DOPA treatment to melanocyte cultures for 24-hour incubation prior to EV analysis.

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Lucia Pineda - Investigating GPR143 Signaling in Pigmented Cell Types Within the Eye

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Lucia Pineda - Investigating GPR143 Signaling in Pigmented Cell Types Within the Eye

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In the McKay lab we study Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), which is the leading cause of blindness in the world. Our lab has found that L-DOPA is the ligand that activates GPR143 and decreases angiogenesis. This finding has slowed the progression of wet AMD which is characterized by its abnormal blood vessel growth in the back of the eye. My project focuses on the mechanism behind the effect of L-DOPA on AMD and GPR143 signaling. To further understand these effects in pigmented cell types, I am analyzing the difference in extracellular vesicle (EV) populations in proliferative and non-proliferative RPE and Melanocytes when treated with L-DOPA.

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Quantifying fluorescently labeled cells across brain regions using ImageJ

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Samuel Rautenberg- Investigating Brain Activity During Observational Fear Learning

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Samuel Rautenberg- Investigating Brain Activity During Observational Fear Learning

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In Dr. Cai's lab, I study observational fear, which is how animals learn to fear something by watching another animal experience it. Using mouse models, I examine which brain regions become active during this process, helping reveal the biological basis of empathy and fear responses.

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Transferring breast cancer cells into new dishes to give them more room to grow.

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Kylie Ernst – Impact of Iron on Proteins Activated by H2O2 Stress

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Kylie Ernst – Impact of Iron on Proteins Activated by H2O2 Stress

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My research project in the Paek lab investigates how the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and iron affects communication in breast cancer cells. Specifically, I look at how this reaction changes the activity of proteins that, under normal conditions, help cells grow and divide. This research can inform future efforts at developing treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

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Jyothisree Mandadapu - Looking at Memory and Aging in Older Adults

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Jyothisree Mandadapu - Looking at Memory and Aging in Older Adults

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I am in Dr. Grilli’s Human Memory Lab on the EAR project where I work with electronically activated recorder smartphone app data for young and older adults. This looks at the relationship between neuropsychological functioning and everyday social functioning. My project focuses on how autobiographical memory specificity changes between being in the lab and in a natural setting for older adults.

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Adding frozen MCF7 cells to the Liquid Nitrogen Tank

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Jessica Erickson - Kinase Degradation Reporter Optimization for Studying Activity of the Protein Kinase DYRK1A 

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Jessica Erickson - Kinase Degradation Reporter Optimization for Studying Activity of the Protein Kinase DYRK1A 

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In the Paek lab I am designing a kinase degradation reporter to understand the dynamic regulation of the kinase DYRK1A through live cell imaging with MCF7 cells. DYRK1A is a protein involved in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration with key dysregulatory roles in Alzheimer's Disease, Down Syndrome, and DYRK1A Syndrome.

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Viewing combined DAPI and Phalloidin channels of DMSO-D19 treated cardiomyocytes 

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Evan Rivera- Imaging of stained Cardiomyocytes treated with small molecules to analyze growth 

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Evan Rivera- Imaging of stained Cardiomyocytes treated with small molecules to analyze growth 

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In Dr. Churko's research lab I am investigating the effects of small molecules on heart cells differentiated from patient derived pluripotent stem cells. Using human cell modeling to study the effects of our drugs allows for the results to be clinically significant. My project focuses on fibroblast cell response to cardiac events like heart attacks, we aim to be able to reduce the rate of heart failure in patients who recover from heart attacks. We hope that by increasing CM health through the use of small molecules the rate of fibrotic development will decrease.

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Plating Fusarium chlamydosporum, a fungus used for bioremediation experiments in the Nìhì Lab

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Remy Seltzer-Indigenous Data Sovereignty Applications in Environmental Science and Engineering

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Remy Seltzer-Indigenous Data Sovereignty Applications in Environmental Science and Engineering

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The Nìhì Lab, led by Dine researcher Dr. De Vore, is a research community focused on developing environmental solutions for issues related to mining legacy near Indigenous lands, using engineering tools and Indigenous data sovereignty. My research combines this intersection of multiple knowledge systems to address environmental challenges.

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Monitoring the Growth of Human Colonic Epithelial Cells

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Vanessa Ley - Investigating the Role of WDFY1 in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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Vanessa Ley - Investigating the Role of WDFY1 in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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In Dr. Wilson’s lab, I am studying the role of the gene WDFY1 in inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis and Crohn’s disease. One of WDFY1's key roles involves the initiation of lysophagy, a selective form of autophagy that recycles organelles and is highly implicated in IBD. I am working with human colonic epithelial cells and two drugs that induce and inhibit autophagy as a model system that will allow me to then test the impact of WDFY1 on this process. Our findings could reveal new ways in which WDFY1 regulates epithelial cell biology and potentially identify targets for the treatment of IBD.

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Observing Growth of Human Colonic Epithelial Cells

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Changing lines in the AKTA machine to purify proteins

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Joni Li - Investigating CopY Repressor Protein on Streptococcus Pneumoniae

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Joni Li - Investigating CopY Repressor Protein on Streptococcus Pneumoniae

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In the Johnson lab, I investigate the effects of copper and iron on the behavior of the CopY repressor protein in the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae across two different media by quantifying influx and efflux. Furthermore, I work with additional repressor genes in S. pneumoniae and test their metal-binding affinity.

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Changing lines in the AKTA machine to purify proteins

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Sydney Swanson-Using blinatumomab in combination with CD137+ T cells 

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Sydney Swanson- Using Blinatumomab in combination with CD137+ T cells 

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Sydney Swanson- Using Blinatumomab in combination with CD137+ T cells 

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The major focus of the Katsanis-Simpson lab is to reduce graft-versus-disease while maintaining the graft-versus-leukemia affect in children. I am working on in vitro and in vivo model systems of exercise induced CD137+ T cells with Blinatumomab as a combination therapy to kill acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. CD137+ T cells are known to have an increased cytotoxic affect which can be exploited from exercise. Exercise is known to mobilize natural killer cells and T cells from tissues into circulation. Blinatumomab is used to bridge T-cells and tumor cells. To bridge the gaps in the literature, I have been looking at the graft-versus- host effect from this treatment for its eventually clinical use.

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Quantifying salivary DNA from prenatal, postpartum, and cesarean section samples

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Johanna Packiam - Advancing Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing through Cell-Free Fetal DNA Detection

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Johanna Packiam - Advancing Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing through Cell-Free Fetal DNA Detection

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Non-invasive prenatal testing typically relies on maternal blood draws or invasive procedures like amniocentesis, which can pose risks to both the mother and fetus. In the MuMH Lab, I'm investigating whether cell-free fetal DNA can be detected in maternal saliva as a non-invasive alternative for prenatal genetic testing. Since this has not yet been experimentally confirmed, the first step is determining whether cell-free DNA can be successfully retrieved from saliva. If successful, we'll use PCR-based methods to detect a male-specific fetal gene and confirm that the DNA is fetal rather than maternal. This research aims to establish saliva as a viable, non-invasive sample source for earlier, safer prenatal genetic testing and improved maternal and fetal health outcomes.

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Abhi Mutha: Investigating Neural Stem Cell Senescence in the Aging Rat Brain

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Abhi Mutha: Investigating Neural Stem Cell Senescence in the Aging Rat Brain

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In the Madhavan lab, which focuses on neurodegeneration and aging, I am collaborating with my mentor on her project investigating neural stem cell senescence. For this project I am assisting with immunohistochemistry and staining for quiescent and senescent cells in the subventricular zone of aged rat brains. My goal for this experience is to develop a stronger foundation in immunohistochemistry techniques and analyzing images while contributing to our understanding of how aging affects neural stem cells.

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Calibrating the iBright system for fluorescent Western blot imaging.

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Rishi R. Suresh - Visualizing Spatial Patterns of Gene Activity in the Marmoset Brain

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Rishi R. Suresh - Visualizing Spatial Patterns of Gene Activity in the Marmoset Brain

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In Dr. Lin's lab, my project focuses on using existing large-scale gene expression datasets to help organize and analyze spatial patterns of gene activity to better understand how cellular communities are structured across marmoset brain regions. This work will contribute to identifying how brain microenvironments may influence cellular function and aging processes.

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Bahozhoni Tso - Investigating Fetal Growth

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Bahozhoni Tso - Investigating Fetal Growth

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In the Chi Zhou Lab, I am focusing on the process and analyzation for RNA isolation to look at gene expression. I've learned how to grind tissue, isolate RNA, and assess the RNA quality. I have put these skills into use by creating my abstract/poster for the EHS-RISE poster presentation at NAU that will take place near the end of July.

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Imaging cells with GFP-labelled transcription factor proteins under nutrient limitation

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Bella Lee - Understanding the function of multi-input transcriptional circuits in controlling cellular growth

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Bella Lee - Understanding the function of multi-input transcriptional circuits in controlling cellular growth

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In eukaryotes, many genes are regulated by not just one, but multiple transcriptional control proteins, in a key genetic regulatory pattern called the multi-input module (MIM). However, exactly what this organization allows the cell to accomplish is unclear. In the Capaldi lab, I am currently exploring how MIMs allow the cell to process and integrate key growth signals in a rapid and precise manner through the regulation of 200 yeast ribosome biogenesis genes. Because of the prevalence of MIMs, understanding the logic of how they function (and how they become misregulated) in making cellular decisions is a critical question. Ultimately, this work will be important in understanding a spectrum of fundamental processes, including disease, development, and stress responses, and lay the foundation for precise gene regulation in bioengineering applications.

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Analyzing the growth of my non-small cell lung cancer cell line

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Dani Khatib - Tumor-Infiltrating Monoclonal Antibody Production

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Dani Khatib - Tumor-Infiltrating Monoclonal Antibody Production

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The human immune system can eliminate cancer cells by producing antibodies that bind to the aforementioned cells, marking them for destruction. At the Bhattacharya lab, I produce tumor-infiltrating monoclonal antibodies initially derived from a patient with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By screening these antibodies against various NSCLC cell lines via flow cytometry, I hope to eventually find a marker that can be used to differentiate healthy lung cells from cancerous ones for use in immunotherapeutic cancer treatments. Currently, I am testing the binding of these antibodies to healthy human lung tissue in order to assure that these antibodies bind to assess autoreactivity.

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Rylee Freudenthal - The role of orphan receptors GPR153 and GPR63 in pathological pain relief 

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Rylee Freudenthal - The role of orphan receptors GPR153 and GPR63 in pathological pain relief 

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In the Streicher Lab, we are researching ways for non-opioid pain therapies. Last summer I tested the impact of GPR153 and GPR63 knockdown in the spinal cords of male and female mice. I did this by using CRISPR in the CIPN pain model on the cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212 and the presynaptic calcium channel inhibitors Gabapentin. This summer I am further exploring these receptors using immunohistochemistry methods to test whether GPR153 and GPR63 are colocalized in the microglia. This information could help us further understand the role of these receptors in pathological pain relief and help identify safer, novel pain treatments.

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Analyzing images of histochemically stained heart slices for fibrosis. 

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Swanuja Godasi - Investigating the Effects of an iPSC-derived Cardiomyocyte Biologic Therapeutic after Myocardial Infarction

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Swanuja Godasi - Investigating the Effects of an iPSC-derived Cardiomyocyte Biologic Therapeutic after Myocardial Infarction

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Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, yet there are no current treatments to recover lost heart muscle after a cardiac event. Previous work in the Goldman lab demonstrated that a stem-cell derived biologic improves cardiac function in swine. I am collaborating with my mentors to further test the biologic in a mouse model. My project includes histological analysis to quantify fibrosis in treated and untreated hearts as well as assisting with collection and processing of data through echocardiography, MRI, and blood processing.

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Kenny Chang - Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease with TMS

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Kenny Chang - Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease with TMS

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In Dr. Chou’s Lab, we are attempting to use TMS to prevent Alzheimer’s Disease on patients with mild cognitive impairments. I have learned to navigate the machine to find the correct spot and intensity to stimulate the hippocampus. Also, I am assisting with a project regarding the relationship between verbal fluency and cognitive decline by analyzing the audios.

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Capturing an image of a sclerotic, congested blood vessel within infarct tissue.

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William Yeoh-Baxter - Histological Classification of Chronic-Phase Stroke Tissue

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William Yeoh-Baxter - Histological Classification of Chronic-Phase Stroke Tissue

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In the Doyle Lab, I am helping with the cutting and imaging of human brain tissue stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). The project aims to classify brain tissue during the chronic phase of stroke, with the goal of understanding long-term inflammatory responses and advancing personalized medicine for stroke patients.

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Shraddha is practicing aligning the TBS coil for iTBS protocol according to the neuro-navigated stimulation site in the brain of lab member, Carol Chen. 

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Shraddha Dwivedi - Investigating the Potential for Ketone Supplementation as a Primer for Neural Plasticity 

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Shraddha Dwivedi - Investigating the Potential for Ketone Supplementation as a Primer for Neural Plasticity 

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This summer, I am continuing my work in Dr. Chou’s Brain Imaging & TMS Laboratory, which investigates the role of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a noninvasive tool for brain rehabilitation and memory enhancement in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease. Specifically, I work with fellow lab member, Carol Chen, on a project that explores the potential for exogenous ketone supplementation to enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and change over time, and further compound the effects of TMS.

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Measuring and adjusting the pH of the hydroponics system

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Taylor Conley - Phytoremediation and Plant Metal Accumulation with Endophytic Fungi

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Taylor Conley - Phytoremediation and Plant Metal Accumulation with Endophytic Fungi

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In Níhí Lab, we investigate how native plants together with root-dwelling fungi uptake and tolerate heavy metals. This summer, we set up a hydroponics system to assess how amaranth seedlings accumulated copper when inoculated with endophytic fungi. This work will help implement larger-scale remediation techniques as an inexpensive and sustainable method to improve water and soil quality in rural and Indigenous communities.

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Maximus Luevanos - An in-depth study of the efficacy of a novel opioid compound via mice models. 

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Maximus Luevanos - An in-depth study of the efficacy of a novel opioid compound via mice models. 

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In Porreca lab, I am evaluating the efficacy of a novel opioid compound in preclinical mouse models. The goal of this project is to characterize its pharmacological profile and assess whether it produces effective analgesia while minimizing withdrawal symptoms compared to traditional opioids. By studying its effects in vivo, we aim to determine its potential as a safer alternative with reduced risk of dependence and adverse withdrawal effects.

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Quantifying IHC-stained neurons across feeding circuit brain regions with FIJI

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Ohm Patel - Investigating the impact of Prader-Willi Syndrome on Neural Circuits in Mice

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Ohm Patel - Investigating the impact of Prader-Willi Syndrome on Neural Circuits in Mice

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In Dr. Haijiang Cai's lab, I am studying the neural mechanisms of Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) using a genetically modified Magel-2 mouse model. Because this syndrome is heavily characterized by metabolic issues, my project focuses on understanding exactly how feeding neural circuits are altered from wildtype to Magel-2 mice. To investigate this, we specifically target and activate the cholecystokinin and run immunohistochemistry (IHC) on the mouse brains to quantify activation of different brain regions. By comparing these activation levels between the wildtype and Magel-2 subjects, the goal is to pinpoint the specific functional changes within this feeding circuit to better understand the neurodevelopmental disruptions driving PWS.

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Shruthi imaging the Western Blot of proteins with the specifically labelled antibodies

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Shruthi Sadhasivam- Quantification and Analysis of Post-Translational Modifications in the Tiglyl-CoA Cell Metabolism Pathway

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Shruthi Sadhasivam- Quantification and Analysis of Post-Translational Modifications in the Tiglyl-CoA Cell Metabolism Pathway

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In Dr. Galligan's Research Lab, we focus on the effect of Post-Translational Modifications (PTMs) and how they can impact cell metabolism. Curretnly, I am investigating a novel PTM in the isoleucine/leucine cell metabolism pathway that deals with the intermediate Tiglyl-CoA (an enzyme that breaks down isoleucine) which eventually makes Acetyl-CoA for energy in the TCA cycle. Using LC/MS, I am able to mark where the Tiglyl-CoA PTM translates to Tiglyl-Lysine residues. The goal of this study is evaluate which enzymes in the isoleucine pathway affects the amount of Tiglyl CoA produced, and whether there is a change when modifying these PTMs. I mainly use HEK (Human Embryonic Kidney) cells, conduct western blots of different proteins related to the pathway, and lastly utilize the LC/MS to quantify and analyze the impact of the PTMs I have manually done. In addition to this project, I assist with other ongoing projects regarding the other metabolic proteins studied in the lab. I have weaned and harvested mice, conducted enzyme kinetics, and PCR tests for mouse genotyping.

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Using AlphaFold to predict the structures of bacterial proteins identified through genome-wide bioinformatics analyses.

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Sarhana Shrestha - Trusting Our Gut: A Genome-Wide Search for Host Colonization Determinants

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Sarhana Shrestha - Trusting Our Gut: A Genome-Wide Search for Host Colonization Determinants

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As a PHIRE Scholar in the Gutierrez Lab, I use bioinformatics and evolutionary approaches to investigate the genomic mechanisms that enable bacteria to colonize specific hosts and persist within the gut. By building and analyzing a searchable database of more than one million bacterial genomes from public and private datasets, I study colonization island genes and specialized metabolites in beneficial bacteria such as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Levilactobacillus brevis. My research highlights how existing genomic resources, particularly short-read genome assemblies, can drive new biological discoveries through computational approaches.

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Pipetting growth media to cultivate engineered bacterial specimens in the Baltrus Lab, ahead of centrifugation and processing for the Trojan Horse delivery system.

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Ryan Mrgudich - Investigating a “Trojan Horse” mechanism in compromising Pestalotiopsis fungi

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Ryan Mrgudich - Investigating a “Trojan Horse” mechanism in compromising Pestalotiopsis fungi

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In the Baltrus Lab, I am testing a “Trojan Horse” approach to controlling fungi specimens. Certain bacteria live naturally inside fungi, and we are trying to engineer these bacteria to carry and release a targeted virus from within their host. I am working to confirm that the delivery mechanism functions correctly, that the virus can be produced, and that both can reach fungal targets. Success could provide a precise, biological alternative to chemical fungicides for managing plant-damaging fungi. This is an alternative that has potentially less risk to wildlife environments compared to commonly utilized fungicides and harmful synthetic chemicals in agriculture.

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Aligning an optical mirror for microplastics imaging

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Ashwin Prasanna - Using Mid-Photothermal Microscopy (MIP) to study microplastics, bacterial metabolism, and human tissue

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Ashwin Prasanna - Using Mid-Photothermal Microscopy (MIP) to study microplastics, bacterial metabolism, and human tissue

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In Dr. Bai’s lab, I am advancing Mid-infrared photothermal microscopy (MIP) for studying bacteria, human tissues, and microplastics. A lot of important biological and environmental questions require us to see not only what a sample looks like, but also what it is chemically made of. Unfortunately, current imaging technologies often involve trade-offs between speed, sensitivity, and chemical specificity. MIP allows us to have fast and label free chemical imaging along with high molecular contrast to be able to distinguish between areas of interest in our images. Scientists will be able to use MIP technology in the future to advance research in rapid antibiotic testing, cancer diagnosis, nanomedicine development, environmental monitoring, and more!

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Looking at some S2 cells under the microscope!

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Jocelyn Rodriguez - Investigating the role of separase on centriole duplication in Drosophila S2 cells

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Jocelyn Rodriguez - Investigating the role of separase on centriole duplication in Drosophila S2 cells

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The centrosome is the main microtubule-organizing center of the cell; proper duplication of the centrosome is essential for spindle assembly and chromosome segregation. In the Dr. Rogers lab, I am currently testing how Separase, an essential enzyme that triggers the transition from metaphase to anaphase during cell division and separates sister chromatids from one another, could potentially cleave centrosomal SCC1 to promote centrosome separation. Using mutant proteins, co-immunoprecipitation, western blots, and mass spectrometry, I am aiming to examine the interaction between separase and SCC1 and identify possible cleavage sites on the centrosome linker. This project aids in understanding how and if separase regulates centrosome separation, as incorrect cleavage leads to chromosome missegregation, aneuploidy, and tumorigenesis.

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Christina Dooley-Investigating the Relationship Between Meningeal Lymphatic Vessels and Cerebrospinal Fluid Volume

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Christina Dooley-Investigating the Relationship Between Meningeal Lymphatic Vessels and Cerebrospinal Fluid Volume

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In the Multi-Scale Brain Imaging Lab under Dr. Hutchinson, I am comparing CSF transport under isoflurane and dexmedetomidine anesthesia within the glymphatic-lymphatic system. By using T2-weighted MRI, I am determining how the functional changes in CSF volume are connected to the morphology of meningeal lymphatic and blood vessels identified by immunohistochemistry.

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Injecting a sample into HPLC to remove compound impurities

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Logan Olshan – Developing a Novelty Assay for DNA Intercalating Agents 

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Logan Olshan – Developing a Novelty Assay for DNA Intercalating Agents 

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In the Xiong lab, I am working on an assay using competition of two dyes against each other to give off a fluorescent signal.  Using this assay, we test potential drug candidates to see if they are DNA intercalating agents, which would cause mutations and possibly cancer in potential patients.

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Katherine Lee - Comparing Farm Dust and Their Effects on 16HBE Cells

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Katherine Lee - Comparing Farm Dust and Their Effects on 16HBE Cells

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Growing up on microbe-rich, traditional Amish farms provides strong protection against childhood asthma.

In the Vercelli Lab, I am investigating how exposure to environmental dust from these farms influences airway health and immune responses. My project compares 16HBE human bronchial epithelial cells exposed to Amish dust extracts with cells exposed to extracts of dust collected from a variety of other environments to determine how these extracts affect airway barrier integrity (measured in vitro as trans-epithelial electrical resistance, TEER) and epithelial gene expression. In the lab, I culture and passage the 16HBE cells and expose them to standardized dust extracts under controlled conditions. I then measure TEER, which evaluates how strongly distinct dust exposures strengthen or disrupt the epithelial barrier. After exposure, I extract RNA from the cells, which provides a snapshot of gene activation following stimulation with dust extracts. I then use RT-PCR to specifically measure changes in the expression of signature genes known to be involved in barrier integrity, inflammation and epithelial metabolism. By comparing barrier function and gene activation across different dust exposures, I hope to identify exposures and genes that may contribute to protection against asthma.

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Bianca Rodriguez- The Effects of Phthalate Exposure on Liver Function

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Bianca Rodriguez- The Effects of Phthalate Exposure on Liver Function

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Dr. Craig’s lab is interested in how chemicals in the environment affect women’s fertility. They research phthalates which are chemicals in the environment that influence the function of hormones in humans and animals. Phthalates are found in nail polish, food packaging, vinyl flooring and more. Craig lab runs experiments to determine the impact of these chemicals on key organs important for metabolism and reproduction. My project is focused on how exposure to a mixture of phthalates affects liver function.

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Preparing CAD files and a cuvette of light-activated resin for xolography printing

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Cal Nunes - Computational Fluid Dynamics for 3D-printed Capillary Models

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Cal Nunes - Computational Fluid Dynamics for 3D-printed Capillary Models

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I am currently working with a PhD student in Dr. Ganesh’s lab to produce scale models of blood vessel architecture extracted from ovarian cancer. We use a type of high-resolution 3D printing, called Xolography, that relies on UV & visible rays to accomplish this. My job is to use a physics simulator to test how accurate the blood flow in our models is to real blood vessels.

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Capturing dorsal hippocampus brain slices in mice using the cryostat machine for staining and PV neuron density analysis. 

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Sree Katta- Studying the effects of noise exposure on memory 

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Sree Katta- Studying the effects of noise exposure on memory 

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In the Bao Lab, I am investigating how loud noise exposure and hearing loss impact extra-auditory brain structures, specifically the dorsal hippocampus. My research focuses on analyzing mouse behavior and changes in PV neuron density to uncover the cellular mechanisms behind noise-induced memory defects and emotional deficits. Ultimately, this work aims to bridge a major gap in understanding how acoustic trauma triggers cognitive decline, providing vital insights into human conditions like dementia, PTSD, and occupational health hazards.

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Jenna Kunde - Tracking the natural hunting behaviors of Mexican Free-tailed Bats

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Jenna Kunde - Tracking the natural hunting behaviors of Mexican Free-tailed Bats

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Many mammals rely on coordinated sensory and motor movements to redirect attention. In Dr. Wohlgemuth’s Batlab, we study these behaviors in echolocating Mexican free-tailed bats because their movements and vocalizations can be tracked precisely during hunting. Flight and audio data are collected from natural hunting trials and analyzed in MATLAB. I track ear, wing, and head movements alongside vocalizations during the approach and attack phases. By identifying these behavioral patterns, we aim to reconstruct the sequence of actions bats use before, during, and after orienting toward prey, providing insight into how mammalian brains coordinate perception, attention, and action.

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Observing changes of body size and lipid distribution in 13 day old C. elegans on a “WorMotel.” 

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Matthew Nguyen - Characterizing Cholesterol-Dependent Changes in Lipid Saturation and Distribution Across Caenorhabditis elegans Lifespan

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Matthew Nguyen - Characterizing Cholesterol-Dependent Changes in Lipid Saturation and Distribution Across Caenorhabditis elegans Lifespan

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In the Sutphin lab, we use the model organism C. elegans to study how cholesterol promotes healthy aging. Using modern genetic modification techniques, we study how genes interact with high cholesterol diets to extend worm lifespan. Our long-term goal is to identify new ways that cholesterol can be targeted to help people live longer, healthier lives.

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Mohima Ali - Hypoxia and Mutation Bias Reversal Across Tumor Evolution

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Mohima Ali - Hypoxia and Mutation Bias Reversal Across Tumor Evolution

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In the Gutenkunst lab, I am investigating how hypoxia influences mutation bias reversal during cancer evolution. Using whole-genome sequencing data from 26 cancer types, I am testing whether hypoxia is significantly associated with mutation bias reversal across tissues or whether these relationships differ by tissue type. I am also examining whether these associations are stronger during early clonal or late subclonal stages of tumor evolution to understand when hypoxia becomes an important evolutionary force.

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Picking C. elegans off of a plate with a tiny spatula to image fluorescence

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Gillian Hammett- Can dietary lipid supplements  help cells clear toxic proteins better?

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Gillian Hammett- Can dietary lipid supplements  help cells clear toxic proteins better?

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I’m studying how different dietary fats affect aging and dementias using the model organism, C. elegans (tiny worms). These worms only live about a month and share important genetic pathways with humans. So we can quickly test whether certain fats help cells clean up harmful protein buildup linked to diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

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Katelyn Clarke – Exploring lipogenic transcription factors in vitro

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Katelyn Clarke – Exploring lipogenic transcription factors in vitro

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In the Thatcher lab, we are working to develop compounds to treat neurodegenerative diseases. However, some promising candidates have been shown to have lipogenic side effects. I use techniques such as PCR and a luciferase assay to screen for lipogenic activity and potentially identify non-lipogenic compounds or correctors that reduce lipogenic effects.

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Reading the OD Values for my HRV-A and HRV-C Vp0 ELISA plates

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Rhinoviruses are the primary cause of the common cold, but vast genetic diversity (>150 types) has impeded vaccine and therapeutic development. Of the three rhinovirus species, Rhinovirus C is typically the most pathogenic (especially in young children), yet remains the least immunologically characterized. In the Bhattacharya Lab, my research explores how antibodies recognize different rhinovirus proteins to better understand the landscape of antibody responses. By screening pediatric and adult tissue and serum samples for antibodies against these proteins, we hope to assess how antibodies recognize conserved viral regions and whether these regions elicit more broadly neutralizing antibody responses, ultimately contributing to more effective therapeutic design.

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Dea Kobeci - Understanding the Role of GABA Transporter Proteins in Opioid Pain Relief

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Dea Kobeci - Understanding the Role of GABA Transporter Proteins in Opioid Pain Relief

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In Dr. Streicher’s lab, we are identifying potential treatments for chronic pain that pose less risk of addiction and other negative side effects, focusing specifically on cannabinoids and opioids. As a part of my project, I study GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter abundant in the brain. One mechanism by which opioids provide pain relief is through the suppression of GABA (disinhibition) which allows for the activation of descending antinociceptive pathways that GABA normally blocks. We want to determine if this antinociceptive effect can be enhanced when GABA transporter proteins are upregulated in the spinal cord. By studying these proteins, we can determine whether it’s possible to increase the pain relief effects of opioids at lower doses.

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Standing next to an air monitoring station.

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Aaron Tso-Air Quality Education through Community-engaged research. 

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Aaron Tso-Air Quality Education through Community-engaged research. 

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In Dr. Hoover’s Lab, I am working on developing a learning module that focuses on Environmental Science that incorporates Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and Community-engaged research methods. Along with community concerns related to air quality issues, the goal of this project is to deliver culturally relevant learning materials to Indigenous individuals interested in citizen-led environmental science.

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Using a gel electrophoresis of a diagnostic digest to confirm cloning 

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In the Kuhns Lab, we are working to design a more efficient and safe way to combat autoimmune diseases. With that goal in mind, we are working to engineering CAR-T cells that will target and kill the autoimmune causing T cells to eliminate disease.

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Using the microscope to check DNA pellet in a flour beetle

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Serin Mariyam Luke- Identifying transcription Binding Sites of the Stripe-specific Enhancers in Flour Beetle

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Serin Mariyam Luke- Identifying transcription Binding Sites of the Stripe-specific Enhancers in Flour Beetle

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The best-studied model for insect segmentation is Drosophila melanogaster. Flies make all of its segments at once, however most insects add segments one by one using a molecular oscillator. In Nagy's Lab, we study how this development happens and compare the fly genetic cascade and the beetle oscillator. My project focuses on identifying transcription factor binding sites of these stripe specific enhancers in even-skipped genes using bioinformatic/AI and CRISPR Cas9 technology(molecular scissors) to predict  within the even-skipped locus.

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Changing the media on transformed Dictyostelium discoideum AX2 cells from VL6 recovery media to H50 selection media. These cells express cAR1 Cluster 1 phosphomutants (C1A or C1E), fused to luciferase II and an mCherry fluorescent tag.

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Christina Vo — Investigating the Regulation of cAR1 Phosphorylation in Dictyostelium discoideum and its Role in Chemotaxis

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Christina Vo — Investigating the Regulation of cAR1 Phosphorylation in Dictyostelium discoideum and its Role in Chemotaxis

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Chemotaxis is a fundamental process underlying several biological processes, such as immune cell migration, wound healing, and cancer metastasis, in which cells use receptor proteins to detect chemical signals and move towards them. In the Charest Lab, we are investigating how phosphorylation regulates cAMP receptor 1 (cAR1), the primary receptor guiding chemotaxis in Dictyostelium Discoideum, to better understand chemotaxis, gradient sensing, and protein signaling dynamics. With our work, we hope to better understand how chemotaxis works in mammalian cells, like immune and cancer cells, which could help inform future therapies for diseases involving abnormal cell migration.

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Auhona Shil - Computational Analysis of the Immunogenic Potential of Mutational Signatures Across HLA Class II Alleles

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Auhona Shil - Computational Analysis of the Immunogenic Potential of Mutational Signatures Across HLA Class II Alleles

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HLA genes allow the immune system to recognize harmful cells and vary greatly between people. In Dr. Gutenkunst's lab, I am building a computational pipeline to predict how different DNA mutation patterns are recognized across HLA Class II alleles. This research could help advance personalized cancer immunotherapy.

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Preparing the "WorMotels" we use at the Sutphin Lab to gather lifespan data

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Derek Favre - Exploring the Life-Extension Effects of 3HAA in Caenorhabditis elegans

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Derek Favre - Exploring the Life-Extension Effects of 3HAA in Caenorhabditis elegans

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At my lab, our goal is to make humans live long and healthier lives. In order to do that, we study a nematode, a small worm, that has many genes and pathways in common with humans. One naturally occurring molecule that humans and nematodes both have, 3HAA, not only makes nematodes live longer, but live healthier lives. My project this summer is to understand how and why this occurs, so we measure the life-extention effects and track the activity of the worms with fluorescent and daily imaging to measure their health over the course of their lives. One of the ways we do this is with a WorMotel as seen above!

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Resuspending Dictyostelium cells in selection media.

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Klarissa Stiff– Investigating the Regulation of cAR1 Phosphorylation in Dictyostelium and its Role in Chemotaxis

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Klarissa Stiff– Investigating the Regulation of cAR1 Phosphorylation in Dictyostelium and its Role in Chemotaxis

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The process of directed cell movement in response to chemical signals, called chemotaxis, is what allows both for cancer cells to metastasize and for immune cells to track down pathogens and foreign materials within the body. Cells respond to chemical signals using receptor proteins that detect chemoattractants. In the Charest lab, we are investigating how phosphorylation regulates the Dictyostelium discoideum cAMP receptor 1 (cAR1) and its role in chemotaxis, gradient sensing, and protein signaling dynamics. We hope to apply our findings to mammalian systems to broadly improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying chemotaxis and the impacts of its dysregulation.

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Imaging immunofluorescently labelled astrocytes from hypothalamic brain tissue

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Jakob Villarreal- Uncovering the glial mechanisms of early life stress-induced behavioral deficits

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Jakob Villarreal- Uncovering the glial mechanisms of early life stress-induced behavioral deficits

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In the Halladay lab, I study how childhood trauma, or early life stress (ELS), impacts the brain such that it predisposes individuals to developing mental health disorders in adulthood. My project, in particular, focuses on the role of special types of brain cells, known as glial cells, in mediating these lifelong behavioral impacts.

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ROI segmentation in action, mapping the locus coeruleus across multiple MRI contrasts (T2, SDE, DDE) in one of our ex-vivo brainstem samples

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Shlaghya Chaturvedi - Postmortem Diffusion MRI of the Locus Coeruleus as an Early Marker of Alzheimer's Pathology

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Shlaghya Chaturvedi - Postmortem Diffusion MRI of the Locus Coeruleus as an Early Marker of Alzheimer's Pathology

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In Dr. Hutchinson’s Multi-Scale Brain Imaging Lab, I am working on detecting novel MRI markers of Alzheimer's Disease in the human brainstem (specifically the Locus Coeruleus). We image postmortem specimens using diffusion MRI and analyse the resulting maps to identify the most promising potential microstructural markers of early stage pathology. We compare these with clinical data collected from the patient’s life and the histopathology performed after imaging to produce more conducive results. The goal of this study is to find a new way to detect the disease earlier as the pathology can develop 15-20 years before the symptoms appear.

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Examining the relative amount of bacterial and fungal growth across multiple agar plates with different antibiotics applied to them

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Andrew Coming -   Determining the Ecological and Genetic Basis of Endosymbiotic Associations Between Bacteria and Fungi 

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Andrew Coming -   Determining the Ecological and Genetic Basis of Endosymbiotic Associations Between Bacteria and Fungi 

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In many ecosystems around the world, different species of fungi and bacteria live close together in what are called symbiotic relationships (similar to the mutually beneficial partnerships between flowering plants and pollinating insects that we depend on for our staple crops). For example, it has recently been discovered that certain bacteria are able to live within the hyphal networks of some species of fungi (including those found along plant leaves) and even alter the physical traits of their fungal hosts. In Dr. Baltrus’ microbiology lab, I am experimenting with several different bacterial strains to see which can be successfully incorporated by fungal cells after growing on agar plates (or in liquid media) treated with antibiotics (which are designed to kill any unwanted bacteria that lack resistance to them). I am also using various sequencing techniques to better understand the genetic basis behind these bacterial-fungal partnerships and how they emerge at the molecular level. This research could provide crucial insights into which types of fungal-bacterial associations are possible in natural ecosystems and how they evolve over time (with unique ramifications for the health and productivity of the plants that they appear on). Additionally, we are also experimenting with a potential method of destroying modified bacterial cells (containing an inserted DNA sequence that is activated in the presence of arabinose sugar) that may prove useful for dealing with antibiotic resistant bacteria in other settings.

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Setting up a PCR reaction to screen for the presence of a transgene.

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Joe Blickfeldt - Evaluating Complementation of Pollen Tube CrRLK1Ls and RALFs in Flowering Plants

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Joe Blickfeldt - Evaluating Complementation of Pollen Tube CrRLK1Ls and RALFs in Flowering Plants

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In the Beilstein Lab, I work with the plants Arabidopsis thaliana and Sisymbrium irio to study the evolution and functional conservation of receptor proteins (called CrRLK1Ls) and signaling peptides they receive (called RALFs).  Specifically, I’m studying a group of receptors and peptides that are vital for reproduction in flowering plants.  The experiments I conduct help to determine their functions, to evaluate complementation between species, and to build inferences about the evolutionary roles of these proteins.

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Diya Bhattacharya - Investigating the relationship between Opioid Induced Respiratory Depression and the Endocannabinoid System 

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Diya Bhattacharya - Investigating the relationship between Opioid Induced Respiratory Depression and the Endocannabinoid System 

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Opioid overdose has been a leading cause of death for the past decade by inducing respiratory depression which suppresses breathing, depriving the body of oxygen. While previous studies have shown a relationship between cannabinoids and the respiratory centers in the brainstem, how the endocannabinoid system regulates respiration and interacts with opioids remains unclear. In the Largent-Milnes lab, we aim to understand more about the endocannabinoid system and its relationship with breathing regulation along with how chronic exposure to opioids, including oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine, disrupts this system. By examining the effects of various opioids on respiratory function and the endocannabinoid system, we hope to identify new therapeutic targets for study that reduce overdose deaths while preserving effective pain relief.

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Anvita Veeramachaneni - Exploring the Relationship between Diabetes and Anxiety

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Anvita Veeramachaneni - Exploring the Relationship between Diabetes and Anxiety

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In the Bao lab, I am understanding how diabetes may increase the risk of anxiety or anxiety-like symptoms and how it impacts the ventral hippocampus of the brain. My project includes analyzing behavior tests performed on diabetic models of mice and examining their brain sections to further investigate whether the number of PV neurons, a type of brain cell that regulates communication, changes in the ventral hippocampus. As the global prevalence of diabetes is on the rise, this work is important to better assess the relationship between diabetes and anxiety, as symptoms of anxiety are often unrecognized in diabetic care.

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Filling our "WorMotel" culturing system with RNAi-expressing bacteria before imaging.

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Chris Wilds - Fluorescence-Based Analysis of Aging in Roundworms

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Chris Wilds - Fluorescence-Based Analysis of Aging in Roundworms

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In the Sutphin lab, we use high-content, long-term screening technology to monitor thousands of C. elegans at once and identify genetic and environmental factors that influence aging. This week, I am using fluorescence imaging to observe how cholesterol allocation changes in response to various genetic interventions. This work contributes to larger projects aimed at determining the lifespan-extending effects of cholesterol in C. elegans.

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Prepping the hood for cell culture practice to eventually test the function of lung endothelial cells.

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Jane Christensen – Investigating the Effect of Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) on the Development and Function of Fetal Lung

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Jane Christensen – Investigating the Effect of Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) on the Development and Function of Fetal Lung

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Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects nearly 8% of human pregnancies and is associated with risk of cardiovascular and pulmonary complications in offspring. In Dr. Zhou’s lab, I am investigating the effect of heat-induced FGR on sheep fetal lung development and function. The aim of this project is to further our understanding of how FGR impacts fetal lung development and function, and how these changes contribute to cardiovascular pulmonary complications in offspring.

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Conducting gel electrophoresis for genotyping purposes.

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Christina Kaufman - Transforming Plants with a Nitrogen Reporter System

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Christina Kaufman - Transforming Plants with a Nitrogen Reporter System

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In Dr. Mark Beilstein’s lab, we are working to reduce nitrogen fertilizer application in agriculture which often leads to pollution of nearby ecosystems and waterways. To do so, we are creating a system in which plants can “communicate” when they are experiencing nitrogen deficiency, so that the addition of nitrogen can be optimized for the plant’s needs. This Summer, my project involves transforming plants with the transgenes necessary for them to produce a signal that will indicate their nitrogen status.

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Analyzing cells that have been treated with different concentrations of the compound

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Alexis Schwartzberg - Determining the mechanism for mRNA stabilizing compounds in the context of human diseases 

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Alexis Schwartzberg - Determining the mechanism for mRNA stabilizing compounds in the context of human diseases 

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A major hallmark of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the decrease in full-length progranulin, which can be attributed to premature stop codons (PTCs) in the GRN gene. This causes the degradation of mutant mRNA through the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway. In the Zhu lab, I am investigating the mechanism of compounds used to stabilize the mRNA and promote translational read-through of PTCs to restore progranulin levels and reverse the FTD phenotype. We ultimately aim to develop therapeutic strategies that increase functional protein expression.

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Creating learning objectives and performing a literature review

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Marisol Beltran-Aparicio - Developing Culturally Relevant Environmental Education Materials

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Marisol Beltran-Aparicio - Developing Culturally Relevant Environmental Education Materials

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The Hoover lab employs community-based research techniques to support Indigenous populations in the evaluation of environmental impacts on health. To do this we work with community members to inform water and air quality monitoring. With growing concerns about climate change impacts, people are looking to Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) for solutions. Paired with a study evaluating fluoride content in wells on the Navajo Nation, my project aims to develop a culturally relevant environmental science curriculum focused on water resources. The goal of this project is to empower Indigenous students to advocate and actively participate in mitigating environmental challenges through environmental education.

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Sieving the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) Beetle colony for egg collection

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Harry Sasis: Investigating Enhancer Functions in Embryonic Development

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Harry Sasis: Investigating Enhancer Functions in Embryonic Development

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Much of what we know about insect segmentation comes from Drosophila melanogaster, which forms all body segments simultaneously, whereas Tribolium castaneum forms segments sequentially through a molecular oscillator. In Dr. Nagy's lab, I investigate whether the +11–12 kb DNA region functions as a stripe-specific enhancer regulating the even-skipped gene, a key pair-rule gene involved in segmentation. Using CRISPR-Cas9, I test the enhancer's function by deleting it, while analyzing ATAC-seq data to identify chromatin-accessible regulatory regions from the anterior to posterior and using FIMO to predict transcription factor binding sites within the even-skipped locus.

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Marlee Fenton - SCN8A Epilepsy and Mg/Kg Dosage of Anti-Seizure Medications 

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Marlee Fenton - SCN8A Epilepsy and Mg/Kg Dosage of Anti-Seizure Medications 

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The Hammer Lab studies SCN8A gene mutations causing severe epilepsy and developmental delays. I analyze international registry and medical data to evaluate anti-seizure medication dosages (mg/kg) for seizure control and identify potential dosage adjustments for more stable treatment outcomes.

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Adding HTRF-based detection antibodies to MOR-CHO cells after 30 min NCAST-compound treatment, finalizing cAMP accumulation assay.

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Josue Sarmiento - Screening noble compounds as candidates for opioid abuse therapeutics. 

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Josue Sarmiento - Screening noble compounds as candidates for opioid abuse therapeutics. 

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I work in the Dr. Frank Porreca lab, where I am part of the in vitro segment of the lab's collaboration with the National Center for Addiction Studies and Treatment (NCAST), involving treatments for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The project involves developing an ultra-potent antagonist of the mu opioid receptor (MOR) for treating opioid overdose. My role in this endeavor is helping characterize the pharmacological activity of these compounds in vitro by running plate-based cell signaling assays, primarily cAMP accumulation. The data collected from these assays helps inform our medicinal chemists on how certain chemical modifications change the activity of the compound. Through iterate rounds of in vitro characterization and medicinal chemistry, we hope to produce a unique candidate to push into clinical development for us in combating opioid overdose.

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Garrett Kuch - Tracking Antibiotic Use Along the U.S.-Mexico Border

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Garrett Kuch - Tracking Antibiotic Use Along the U.S.-Mexico Border

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In Dr. Ellingson's lab, my research reviews existing studies and analyzes Medicare prescription data to better understand antibiotic use along the U.S.–Mexico border setting and related contexts. By identifying prescribing trends and knowledge gaps within the community, this work will go on to support strategies that improve antibiotic use and reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections.

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Collecting virgin fruit flies that are essential for dissections of ovaries, testes, salivary glands, and imaginal wing discs. 

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Romeo James - Investigating How Temperature Affects Gene Silencing in Position Effect Variegation

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Romeo James - Investigating How Temperature Affects Gene Silencing in Position Effect Variegation

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In Dr. Maggert’s Lab, we study heterochromatin and how its silencing nature spreads to nearby genes, leading to regions of the gene becoming expressed or silenced; This is Position Effect Variegation. My project this summer is to figure out how cold and hot temperatures affect gene expression and regulation by dissecting various organs of D. melanogaster and observing how the expression differs between the two.

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Niko Chitturi - Investigating Sheep Endothelial Cells Under Heat Stress

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Niko Chitturi - Investigating Sheep Endothelial Cells Under Heat Stress

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In Dr. Zhou's Lab at the Campus Agricultural Center, we are studying how heat stress affects sheep and the effects on their pregnancies. Specifically, the effect on endothelial cells, which are the inner linings of blood vessels. I am assisting with culturing cells for data analysis as well as performing RNA isolations to see the responses due to environmental changes. This research is important because it can help in understanding how women with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and premature babies can be better treated.

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Examining fruit fly crosses for collection at a microscope. 

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Zachary Boydell - Understanding Wrapping Glia's Supportive Role in Proper Axon Function and Development

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Zachary Boydell - Understanding Wrapping Glia's Supportive Role in Proper Axon Function and Development

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Glia are supportive cells found throughout our nervous system that are critical to proper neuron function and development. In Dr. Corty's lab, we study the interrelationship between wrapping glia and axon function and development. We do this by using genetic manipulation techniques such as knockdown in our fruit fly model organism. This knowledge of how glia wrap neurons may allow us to better take action in the case of nerve or brain injuries or diseases. I am currently working on understanding if knockdown of Mmp1, a protein that breaks down extracellular matrix proteins, results in axon degeneration. As well as piloting a behavioral assay that will be used to screen for key genes involved in how wrapping glia spread injury signals.

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Microscopic image of a wing disc, dissected from our fruit flies, D. melanogaster.

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Miranda Quinones - Observing Position Effect Variegation (PEV) in D. melanogaster

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Miranda Quinones - Observing Position Effect Variegation (PEV) in D. melanogaster

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In the Maggert laboratory, we use Drosophila melanogaster, commonly know as fruit flies, to investigate heterochromatin and euchromatin instability and their big role in gene expression. Position Effect Variegation (PEV) refers to a phenomenon where there is a pattern of heterochromatic and euchromatic regions in genes. Our goal is to understand and be able to track when genes are switching on and off in real time. To do so, we use a Switch Monitoring (SwiM) System, allowing us to know when genes are on/off using fluorescence. My project focuses on adding various environmental factors such as hot and cold temperatures to observe the rate of instability of PEV in our flies.

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Thawing MS1 and MKL2 cells (MCC cell lines) to prepare RNA and protein extractions

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Dae-Kyung Kim - Mapping the Immunoresistance Mechanism of Merkel Cell Carcinoma

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Dae-Kyung Kim - Mapping the Immunoresistance Mechanism of Merkel Cell Carcinoma

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Immunotherapy, which unleashes a patient's own immune system against their tumor, has become one of the most powerful tools in cancer treatment. Yet for most patients it simply does not work, and why some tumors stay invisible to the immune system remains poorly understood. In the Padi lab, I am investigating whether the answer lies in cancer "stemness," a self-renewal, differentiation-resistant cell state that lets tumor cells grow relentlessly and hide from immune attack. Using Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive skin neuroendocrine cancer, as a model, I analyze single-cell RNA sequence data from patients to identify the molecular pathway/network that maintains this state and pinpoint the switches that control it. Because stemness and immune escape recur across many cancers, this work could help explain why immunotherapy fails and lay the groundwork for making it succeed for many cancer patients.

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Preparing For A Western Blot By Pipetting Reagent to the Wells

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Swagat Doki - Investigating Drug Weaknesses for Enhanced Development 

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Swagat Doki - Investigating Drug Weaknesses for Enhanced Development 

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In the Date Lab, I aim to enhance drug’s development and delivery by examining their weaknesses. Most drugs when developed often don’t take into account various organ system’s properties like temperature and salinity. My work combines chemistry and biology with laboratory techniques to ensure the drug’s modifications work as intended.