Archy Pattanaik

Author: Archy Pattanaik | Major: Biology | Semester: Spring 2024

My journey as an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Yuchun Du’s laboratory has been a transformative and challenging experience, igniting my passion for medical research. It all began in my sophomore year when I cold-emailed Dr. Du, eager to delve into the field of cancer research. After an enthusiastic meeting where I expressed my fervor, I secured a volunteer position in his lab.

My research primarily focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms governing the activation state of Bax, a pivotal protein in mitochondria-mediated programmed cell death (apoptosis). Dysregulated apoptosis is implicated in a spectrum of human disorders, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune conditions. Within vertebrates, the Bcl-2 protein family governs the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, with Bax emerging as a pivotal member alongside Bak, facilitating mitochondria-mediated cell death. In its inactive state, Bax’s transmembrane domain is sequestered within its molecular structure. Upon apoptotic stimulation, Bax undergoes conformational changes, translocating from the cytosol to mitochondria to initiate apoptosis. However, the precise regulatory mechanisms governing Bax activation remain a subject of ongoing investigation.

Using BioID, a proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID) integrates a protein of interest with a promiscuous biotin ligase, facilitating the identification of interacting and proximal proteins in live cells, we identified Prohibitin 2 (PHB2) as associating closely with Bax in non-apoptotic cells. PHB2, known for its anti-apoptotic role, colocalizes with Bax, suggesting a regulatory interaction. Immunostaining and confocal microscopy further validate their proximity and association. Hence, we hypothesized that PHB2 is one of the cellular proteins interacting with Bax, regulating its activation state in animal and human cells. This semester, my focus will involve conducting Immunoprecipitation and GST-pull-down assays to assess the interaction between Bax and PHB2. Furthermore, I sought to study which domains of PHB2 are essential for its interaction with Bax, thus I generated its truncation mutants through in-fusion cloning. I will also investigate the impact of PHB2 knockdown and overexpression on the activation of Bax in mammalian cells.

Navigating the complexities of scientific research presented numerous challenges. Many experiments did not yield expected results, necessitating patient repetition and meticulous troubleshooting. Balancing the demands of rigorous lab work with academic studies during peak semester hours tested my time management skills and resilience. Throughout these challenges, Dr. Du’s unwavering support and mentorship were pivotal. His guidance not only enriched my scientific understanding but also encouraged me to think critically and independently solve complex problems. The collaborative environment within the lab was equally invaluable. Interactions with graduate students and other faculty members fostered stimulating discussions and diverse perspectives. This collective effort enhanced my learning experience, broadening my understanding of biomedical research beyond the confines of my own experiments.

In essence, my experience as an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Du’s lab has not only deepened my scientific knowledge but has also shaped my personal growth. It has taught me resilience in the face of scientific challenges, the importance of collaboration in advancing knowledge, and the transformative impact of mentorship. Reflecting on my experience, I have cultivated a profound passion for elucidating the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer progression. My current aspirations focus on integrating biochemistry with cancer therapeutics, with the aim of advancing the development of precise, molecular-level treatments. This commitment to translational research, aimed directly at improving human health outcomes, fuels my ambition to make impactful contributions to the field of biomedical science.