Basic Science Rotation Reflection
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For my Basic Science Rotation I worked with my Capstone group, Seliya Mawani and Emma Mensour. We attended Dr. Dale W. Laird's lab, which is in the department of Anatomy and Cell Biology. His primary research focuses on gap junction biology. We also attended weekly lab meetings in which we had to present our progress, were asked questions, and offered opinions on the work of other PhD and Masters students’ research. Initially, we were nervous and did not know much about the topic. However, by the last two weeks, we were confident in our knowledge that was gained through the immersive lab experiences, the research conducted in the lab, and reading articles to complete our deliverables. We were also able to have one-on-one insightful conversations will Dr. Laird that I believe will help us in our professional and academic careers. The experience helped me understand the value of professionalism and revisit my cell biology knowledge and laboratory technical skills.
Deliverables
Immersive Hands on Laboratory Experience
Microscopic experience: Confocal Images
Western Blots
Logos- Branding Deliverable
Skin Disease Schematics
OpenToonz Biorender
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Mutations in the GJB2 gene encoding for the Cx43 protein results in a skin disease, Keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome. This disease affects skin, cochlea and eyes. It is characterized by thickening of the epidermal layers, prelingual sensorineural hearing loss and chronic inflammation of the eye's cornea. I read multiple articles to understand the mechanism of how gap junctions are affected by this mutation. Initially, I wanted to create a animated video using the software OpenToonz to show the mechanism, however, over time with suggestions from the lab members and Dr. Laird, I had different versions of my schematic. Here is my process of creating the schematics and the different versions that were created:
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Trial 1: OpenToonz
Trial 2: Biorender
Trial 3 (FINAL): Biorender
