Research
Assessing the impact of T1D associated coding variant rs763361 on CD4 and CD8 cell phenotype and antigen specific function.
Advised by Dr. Todd Brusko
University of Florida Diabetes Institute (UFDI), College of Medicine
January 2023-Present
​
Research focus: In this project, we will build off this previous work using CRISPR/Cas9 to evaluate how the rs763361 SNP affects antigen specific T cell function. This project will be a novel investigation into the impact of rs763361 on CD4 and CD8 phenotype and function through using CRISPR/Cas9 to create an isogenic system, an experimental framework which is an emerging tool in T1D research. Ultimately, the project will seek to answer if the T1D associated risk variant within CD226 contributes to enhanced antigen specific function and inflammatory phenotype observed in T1D.
​
Project responsibilities: While executing this research project, I will work in collaboration with post-doctoral Leeana Peters. We intend to collaborate on project design, data collection, and data analysis. I will also take a directive role in the communication of the project through poster presentations and progress towards a scientific publication. My intended result is a co-authorship on a peer-reviewed journal article, for which I will largely be responsible for writing. From this project, I hope to make a significant contribution to the body of knowledge surrounding T1D pathogenesis and gain experience in the entire scientific process.
​
CD8 KO workflow
Assessing the impact of a BACH2 KO on CD8 activation and Treg stability
Advised by Dr. Todd Brusko
University of Florida Diabetes Institute (UFDI), College of Medicine
August 2023-Present
​
Research focus: It is evident that BACH2 plays a critical role in the progression of autoimmunity, making it an attractive therapeutic target. A T1D associated SNP (rs72928038) reduces expression of BACH2 in T cells, which can be modelled in vitro through CRISPR/Cas9 knockouts (KO). This project seeks investigate the consequences of BACH2 interference on T cell function in T1D.
​
Project responsibilities: While executing this research project, I will work in collaboration with post-doctoral fellow Leeana Peters. We intend to collaborate on project design, data collection, and data analysis. I will also contribute to communication of the project through poster presentations and progress towards a scientific publication. My intended result is a co-authorship on a peer-reviewed journal article. From this project, I hope to make a significant contribution to the body of knowledge surrounding T1D pathogenesis and gain experience in the entire scientific process.