Grand Rapids Metropolitan Area
10 hours of shadowing as of present day
I am currently contributing to an interdisciplinary research project titled “Alterations in the Brain, Muscle, Liver, Macrophage, and Adipocyte Status of PTEN Transgenic Mice.” This study investigates how elevated PTEN expression influences metabolism, aging, and disease by examining its effects across multiple tissues, including the brain, adipose tissue, muscle, liver, and immune cells. The project builds on the observation that PTEN transgenic mice exhibit increased energy expenditure, reduced adiposity, improved insulin sensitivity, and extended lifespan, mirroring characteristics seen in other long-lived mouse models. My role involves dissecting tissues, purifying RNA and protein, performing real-time PCR and Western blotting, and analyzing experimental data. Through this experience, I am gaining hands-on training in molecular biology and scientific research techniques, while deepening my understanding of the molecular pathways that connect metabolism, cancer, obesity, diabetes, and aging.
In this role I will be able to introduce Bills and amendments that I hope will aid in the betterment of every students experience at the University of Michigan as well as making the University a more respecting and inclusive environment.