For my STEP Signature Project, I decided to spend my summer working full-time as an undergraduate researcher in a biochemistry and molecular genetics research lab under the guidance of Dr. Renee Bouley and Dr. Ruben Petreaca. My project focused on determining the role of PRMT5 in DNA double-strand break repair processes. Genetic deletions often lead to mutations and the development of many cancers. Understanding the role of PRMT5, an epigenetic regulator, is a crucial step in advancing cancer prevention research. My primary goals for this project were to create a solid foundation in my research experience by learning the proper research protocols, expanding my understanding of biochemistry and molecular genetics, and enhancing my desire and aspirations to pursue medicine and biomedical research.
Before my project, I was hesitant about my capabilities as a researcher and the impact a single person can have in the field. I had this stigma that since my research lab was a bit smaller compared to most people’s, my contribution to advancing knowledge would be insignificant. However, as I continued to read publications and repeat research techniques, my understanding of genomic instability and cancer as well as my capabilities to effectively perform trials increased over time. Eventually, I realized that it is impossible to know everything and that research is a collaborative effort across the field to garner an understanding of our world. I realized that research is a very slow process that takes a lot of patience and care. With this newfound realization, I eliminated doubt and began to effectively give back to the field. My procedures took less time and I started to get more results. I struggled to extract much protein but eventually got some (indicated in the photo). The computational side of my project also allowed me to understand the homologous interactions formed between the yeast and human homologs of my protein and gene of interest (indicated in the photo). Low RMSD values indicate high similarity between the two structures, allowing researchers to expand cancer knowledge using yeast.
Another realization I made is the importance of research in medicine. Since I can remember, I’ve always had an interest in healthcare. Oftentimes, when the word “healthcare” or “medicine” is mentioned, people’s first thought is a doctor treating a patient. However, what people fail to realize is the necessity of research to find these treatments, the importance of trial and error to find effective results, and the complexities of finding the knowledge society expects physicians and healthcare professionals alike to provide to patients. This STEP experience has provided a different perspective on the field and shifted my career goals to include research. Scientists conducting research is the “behind the scenes” of healthcare. I used to believe that putting full effort into pursuing a career in healthcare as a physician is the best way to help the most people. However, through STEP, I realized the importance and contribution researchers have on society, which has shifted my career goals to include some form of research as well. This experience has made me grow academically by learning more about biochemistry, molecular genetics, and the role of certain characters in DNA double-strand break repair pathways, personally by forcing me to grow more patient when setting up experiments and waiting for results, and professionally by making me realize that research is something I would like to pursue in addition to practicing as a physician in the future.
