My Work in FIRE EB
I started in the FIRE EB lab in a small group selecting for aptamers that bound to the NasR antiterminator protein. During that time, I gained experience in conducting research and science communication as my group and I presented our findings and presenting literature reviews to the class.
Following this, I was then placed in a group troubleshooting and testing out aptamer selection for aptamers that had enzymatic properties (aptazymes). Along with this, I gained more experience in research as I had to troubleshoot and analyze protocols as well as continue to present my findings with my group.
Finally, I ended my career in the FIRE EB lab as a Peer Mentor/TA for the research course. In this role, I had an expanded responsibility as I not only had to work on a new research project, but I also had to lead a small group of incoming students into the program. My final project was working in a group to select for aptamers that would bind against a mutant version of NasR which would help us better characterize the molecule. Along with this, I led a group of 4 first year students with their project which was also selecting for aptamers against mutant NasR. I also helped the professor with running the lab space and with troubleshooting equipment.
About Aptamers
Aptamers are oligonucleotides (i.e. short DNA and RNA molecules) that can bind to other molecules with high specificity and bonding affinity. This makes them similar to protein antibodies except they have the benefit of being smaller, more stable and able to bind to molecules that antibodies are unable to.Â
It is hoped in the future that aptamers can be used in biosensors to help detect molecules and pollutants of interest as well as in therapeutics or as a detection method for diseases and ailments.
The main method for testing and selectying for ideal aptamers is Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) which involves taking a pool of randomly sequenced oligonucleotides and using a method similar to directed evolution to produce the ideal aptamer.
About FIRE
The First-Year Innovation and Research Experience Program is a 3-semester program at the University of Maryland, College Park where 1st-year students are given the opportunity to learn about and participate in research for their first 3-4 semesters. The program starts with a course dedicated to data analysis, science communication and other skills that researchers need. This is then followed by the remaining semesters working in a specific lab in the program where students work on research projects and present them. Eventually, students have the opportunity to stay in the program for an extra semester where they can act as a Peer Mentor/TA for the lab course and help other students entering the program.