Research Department: Translational Research in Ultrasound Theranostics (TRUST)
Graduation Date: May 2021
Abstract: The TRUST lab specializes in innovating ultrasound imaging, and a range of other medical techniques involving ultrasound. My project consisted of improving the loading and delivery of DNA onto Micro Bubbles (MBs) for gene therapy. These MBs can be chemically modified to attach hyaluronic acid-spermine polymers onto the surface; these cationic polymers would allows us to load negatively charged DNA onto the MBs, as well as antibodies to target specific cell receptors commonly found in diseases like cancer. Once the loaded MBs reach their target cells, waves of high frequency ultrasound induce rapid partial pressure changes in the MBs causing them to burst. The implosion of MBs accomplishes two things: 1) Rupturing the cell membrane because of close proximity to the MBs. 2) The release of loaded DNA, which can potentially access the cytosol easily through the ruptured membrane. Email:[email protected]; [email protected]
What Does Research Mean To You? As researchers we train to become active participants in the scientific method. We are trained to understand that there are countless answers behind one single question, and behind those answers are even more questions. Research is an opportunity to find what you are passionate about, and which areas you would like to explore, expand, and even introduce to your field. Tell Us About Your Journey Living as an immigrant in the USA, I struggled to find my place for many years. I moved from Monterrey, Mexico to Frisco, TX in 2013. Navigating a new country and school system was difficult to say the least. I always struggled with my mental health, especially after high school when the college anxieties began. Because of this, I made a lot of unhealthy decisions through my college career. I am thankful to have such amazing friends that pushed me to become better. Those friends encouraged me to attend UT Dallas, and eventually encouraged me to apply to the Green Fellows. I attended UNT for a semester, but made the tough choice to move to UTD since it would cater to my research career. This cost me to delay a year from my graduation, yet I am so thankful because it meant I got to complete an Associates of Science from Collin College, and be part of the Green Fellowship while attending UTD! Now I am focused on finishing my Bachelor's of Biochemistry, and finding a Post Baccalaureate program to further my training as a researcher.
How Did the Pandemic Affect Me? It was difficult to accept that my time in the lab had to be cut short because of a situation I had no control over. It was like a middle school field trip cancelled because of the rain. I had so many expectations, and anticipation to what I was going to accomplish through my stay at UTSW. My research took a long time to take off, and just when I was getting ready to take a big leap into the next step the lab closed down. It was heartbreaking to see all the other Green Fellows lose their opportunities, and watching my colleagues hold back tears because of all the time and effort we had lost with such a harsh setback. I was equally sad and hopeful to see that Dr. Ravnik, and the UTSW staff make such harsh decisions to stop all research, and move to online.
Regardless of how tragic it was for us all, we were lucky to have other ways of continuing our research. Being able to see my peers' pain, consequent recuperation and adaptation was inspiring. I am thankful that this experience allowed me to witness researchers finding ways to make the best out of any circumstance. The amount of collaboration and aide between coworkers through these hard times was something that will stay with me forever.
As Green Fellows, we ended up having a virtual poster presentation. Very much different from what I was expecting at the beginning of the fellowship, but I actually loved the ending. The poster presentation was great, it allowed my relatives, mentor, and friends to attend even though they were countries away. I cannot thank Dr. Ravnik, Erika, and Deb enough for allowing us the opportunity that we had. Thank you!
Where am I now? I graduated in May 2021 with a BS in Biochemistry and plan to pursue a PhD in Chemistry.
Advice for Future Green Fellows
If you are even just a bit curious and considering applying, apply! If you don't get in this year, apply next year! This is an amazing opportunity to learn how to communicate, collaborate, and explore your career interests alongside professionals and even make some friends. Every single fellow's experience is different, especially in post-pandemic times. Regardless of what happens during your time at UTSW, try to learn from your fellows and mentors (They are there to help!). Practice how to become approachable, and learn how to approach your colleagues. Don't be afraid to ask for help; we all need help eventually.