My name is Rosanna Jiang, and I am a rising junior studying Environmental Science and Chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania. At Penn, I am heavily involved in the performing arts community on two dance groups and entrepreneurial competitions. I am passionate about environmental conservation and addressing health inequities due to environmental exposures. This summer, I had the wonderful honor and opportunity to intern in Dr. Aalim Weljie and Dr. Rebecca Simmons’ labs, studying the metabolic and reproductive health effects of exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). 

What is your summer research project?

PFOA is widespread, highly resistant to degradation, and accumulates in humans due to constant exposure. In preliminary research of the effects of PFOA, it is known that PFOA targets certain organs, including the liver, kidney, and placenta. As a result, it can be harmful to metabolic and reproductive health. Our hypothesis for this summer is to study PFOA under the lens of a possible endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) that can alter the biological circadian clock and increase the risk of developing diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. 

Collaborating with Nikita Bharati, I worked with two experimental models to explore the effects of PFOA exposure at varying dosages. In Dr. Weljie’s lab under the guidance of Dr. Lisa Bottalico, we have conducting qPCR and circadian clock recording experiments on mouse hepatocytes. We also have been analyzing past metabolomic data in a similar recording experiment on hepatocytes — exposed to BPA, DEHP, and PFOA — and linking it to metabolic diseases. In Dr. Simmons’s lab, we run western blots on liver samples, testing lipoproteins that increased in a preliminary qPCR run, from Dr. Sara Pinney’s PFOA-exposed gestational female mice and their fetuses. 

What are the implications of your research?

PFOA is a per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, a class consisting of over 5000 chemicals and unique for its thermally and chemically stable backbone of carbon-fluorine bonds. PFAS is used for nonstick coatings and fire-fighting foams. As a result, there has been widespread contamination of this emerging and legacy contaminant in drinking water in the nation. Currently, there is no national regulation of PFAS levels in drinking water; states that have regulation over PFAS have drastic levels of tolerance, ranging from 5.1 (California, PFOA only) to 400,000 (Michigan, PFHxA) ppt. 

Prevalence of PFAS found in drinking water or ground water in the USA (Source: EWG) 

While PFAS does not sorb into fat tissue, it accumulates in blood, liver, lungs, kidney, and placenta with a very high human half-life. PFAS is particularly dangerous to people during windows-of-susceptibility, key developmental periods that are highly vulnerable to environmental exposures. Our specific research in Dr. Simmons’s lab focuses on the gestational period where exposures occurring at this time may result in fetal programming and cause a later onset of obesity or diabetes later in the child’s life. Consistent exposure and accumulation of PFAS may dysregulate the biological circadian clock and hormonal levels, increasing risk of developing metabolic syndrome, unbalanced energy homeostasis, and disrupted hormonal function.

What new skills have you gained through your research?

Beyond strengthening my skills in cell culture and western blot technique, I learned to analyze lipidomics data, measured using liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy. I have also learned more about how to plan experiments and troubleshoot common lab procedures. Primarily, we were challenged to set up our own western blots, optimizing the western blot procedures, antibody dilution, and protein concentration amounts. 

My name is Rahma Osman, and I am a rising junior at Penn, majoring in neuroscience and minoring in computational neuroscience and consumer psychology. Through STEER, I was given the opportunity to learn about my environmental surroundings and how it shapes human health in addition to the vital role we play in shaping our environment. 

What is your summer research project? 

This Summer, I worked with Dr. Jianghong Liu at the School of Nursing to conduct a systematic review on the overlap between air pollution and cortical thickness outcomes. This project required conducting large scale literature searches and collation of data into tables and figures. By examining different journals and databases, I was able to come up with inclusion/ exclusion criteria for studies to conduct a review on. Through this process, I learned about individual study findings, but more importantly about the literature search process. For example, what can qualify a systematic review for a meta-analysis or how findings can differ across populations and geographical locations. 

After spending a couple weeks of conducting literature searches to examine already existing data, I was able to find some gaps in research for which I proceeded to identify the pros and cons of what a systematic review can contribute. I decided to focus on changes in cortical thickness, examined through magnetic resonance imaging as a response to air pollution exposures. With an increase in newer brain imaging techniques and technologies, I saw this topic as something that required a review and analysis of data to determine if previous studies have had similar conclusions. 

What are the Implications of your research? 

 The overall purpose of my research is to determine whether there are changes in cortical thickness with an increase in air pollutant exposures. Cortical thickness is an important measure for understanding the progression of disease, identifying abnormal brain regions, and consequently, assessing possible treatment options. It’s important to note that structural manifestations to changes in our environment can serve as solid evidence for policy makers and politicians to respond to. With increasing research regarding such topics, we can raise awareness and evidence for a much needed change towards a greener earth. 

What new skills have you gained through your research? 

This summer I’ve gained a skill set that I will continue to use in the coming years. Conducting literature searches can be a strenuous and stressful process that doesn’t always lead to the outcome one expects. Dealing with lots of bumps in the road, I’ve learned how to conduct literature searches and assess criteria, how to analyze and synthesize sources into a comprehensible paper, and how to communicate effectively with a team. Performing research requires reading and analytical skills, but also lots of organization and time management, which was definitely a challenge for me coming into the program. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with distinguished scientists and educators through STEER. I was able to learn and practice vital literature skills, be more aware of my environment, and learn how we can all participate in environmental change in our communities. 

My name is Samara Pyfrom, and I am a rising junior and Meyerhoff Scholar at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s of science degree in Environmental Science and Geography. Being a native Marylander, my appreciation for nature stemmed from my experiences on and around the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. This appreciation quickly became a full commitment to conservation. In addition to conservation to the natural environment, my other passions include Environmental Justice, especially as it pertains to health outcomes.

This summer, under the mentorship of Dr. Marilyn Howarth, a champion for Environmental Justice, I investigated the role legacy pollutants play in soil lead levels in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is a highly industrious city with significant historical use of lead in these. The outcomes of this research can have serious health implications for Philadelphia residents, especially children. I am grateful to the STEER program for allowing me to participate in this important research. Knowing that my research can be used to inform the public about potential environmental health risks is encouraging.

What is your summer research project?
This summer, I researched legacy pollution in Philadelphia and its potential effects on soil lead levels today. I wished to understand how the two could be linked, and what the current risk is for high-risk populations, like children. For this project I first researched historical lead industry in the city. Using this information, I found points throughout the city where lead was once used industrially. I then travelled to and collected soil samples at these locations. I also collected samples at local parks and schools were children are more likely to be exposed. I then tested the soil lead levels. Because of the negative health
impacts of lead, I wanted to understand how even historical sources might impact health today.

What are the implications of your research?
My research can be used for local Philadelphia residents to have a more informed understanding of their potential lead exposure. Lead in soil is just one part of lead exposure. The implications of my research might suggest the risk that historical pollutants might raise, even today. It reminds us that our current environment may not be reflective of potential hazards that still pose a risk.

What new skills have you gained through your research?
This research project has challenged me to work independently, and think critically about what my results might suggest. I have strengthened my skills working in ArcGIS, using databases, doing research in the field, and data analysis. These skills are preparing me further in my career as a research scientist.

My name is Eva Nee, and I will be starting my third year at Penn, majoring in biology with intended minors in chemistry and Asian American studies. I am also following the pre-med track. Since July 2021, I have worked in the Blair Lab with my mentor, Dr. Clementina Mesaros. In the STEER program, I had an amazing opportunity to continue working in the lab and start my own research project. 

What is your summer research project?

This summer, I explored the connection between exposure to pesticides and neurodegeneration. The aim of my project was to work towards a therapeutic approach for neurodegeneration by analyzing the lipid levels in cells. Previous studies have shown that environmental exposures— specifically pesticides— are strongly associated with Parkinson’s disease, although the exact intracellular mechanism by which this occurs remains unknown. In my experiment, I cultured human neuroblastoma cells that are commonly used as a model for Parkinson’s disease. Then, I exposed these cells to the pesticide rotenone. After 24 and 48 hours, I quantified and analyzed the lipids extracted from the cell samples, and I compared these results with the control cell samples. 

What are the implications of your research?

Neurodegenerative diseases affect millions of people across the world. However, not much is known about the environmental mechanisms that may lead to neurodegenerative disease. After Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease. Because Parkinson’s disease has been associated with pesticide exposure, some cases of Parkinson’s disease may be preventable, and there may be new avenues for therapeutic approaches. Also, the pesticide rotenone is a commonly used insecticide, herbicide, and fish toxin. Based on the results of this study, we may be able to apply these findings to other neurodegenerative diseases and pesticides. 

What new skills have you gained through your research?

Through my research this summer, I learned many new technical lab skills. For example, I learned how to conduct Pierce protein assays; plate, culture, and split cells; and use the lab’s high resolution-liquid chromatography mass spectrometer. I also had the opportunity to further refine my everyday lab techniques, such as pipet work, using the sonicator, and managing the nitrogen evaporator. Outside of the lab, I learned several new data processing systems. I became familiar with the programs that the lab frequently uses to analyze samples, specifically lipid and mass spectrometry software. Finally, I became more educated in neurodegenerative diseases as I read through numerous journal articles for background information and experimental design ideas. Overall, the STEER program helped me develop and strengthen crucial research skills.

My name is Kamalini Sengupta. I’m a rising senior at Bryn Mawr College, majoring in neuroscience and minoring in philosophy. I’ve been working in Dr. Nirinjini Naidoo’s lab at the Perelman School of Medicine since the summer of 2021, exploring the effects of sleep loss and circadian rhythm shifts in mice. The STEER program has allowed me to expand on this project, and my research skills in general. 

What is your summer research project?

Studies show that repeated sleep loss can lead to cellular stress and cause proteins to misfold. Our cells have a troubleshooting mechanism in place to deal with these misfolded proteins, called the unfolded protein response (UPR). As we age, the UPR becomes weaker and proteins start to accumulate, causing neurodegeneration. My project this summer has been studying whether sleep depriving young mice increases UPR activity later in life. I have been looking for a UPR marker protein called CHOP between control mice and mice that have been sleep deprived for 8 weeks. The mice were collected at different timepoints to determine temporal progression in UPR activity. This data will then be compared to results of cognitive-behavioral testing to see if there is a link between memory impairment and cellular stress.   

What are the implications of your research? 

Loss of sleep is incredibly prevalent in the US, especially among shift workers. Shift work has been shown to create problems with safety, performance, and overall well-being. These problems can be dangerous in certain settings, such as healthcare. Being a college student, I also know that sleep loss is common among my peers. Results from this study could stress the importance of sleep hygiene to prevent the early onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. 

What new skills have you gained through your research?

Through my work at the Naidoo lab, I have learned how to perform immunohistochemistry staining, which is a method of localizing and semi quantifying specific proteins in tissue using antibodies. Working on this project has also taught me how to problem solve and create plans to get somewhat daunting tasks completed efficiently. I am incredibly grateful to the STEER program and my mentors at the Naidoo lab for teaching me skills that will not only be useful in future research, but in other academic and extracurricular pursuits, as well.

My name is Helena Blobel and I am a rising junior at Cornell University, studying biological sciences with a concentration in ecology and evolutionary biology. I participated in the STEER program in Philadelphia, as I am from the suburbs nearby in Lower Merion. After college, my plans include either graduate school or medical school. 

What is your summer research project? 

This summer, I worked with Dr. Corlett Wood. My research project was to study root-knot nematodes, a common, detrimental crop parasite that infects the roots of plants. My aim was to refine methods for harvesting and observing the infectious juvenile nematodes in a sterile environment in order to study them. This meant that I worked with hydroponics to grow them without soil, and pluronic gel plate experiments to examine their behavior. 

What are the implications of your research?

The hydroponics allowed me to create a source of nematode juveniles in a more controlled environment than in soil, streamlining the process of studying them and reducing potentially harmful disinfectant usage. The plate experiments allowed me to observe nematode attraction to various types of plants. These methods are useful for understanding their infectivity and therefore finding solutions to the significant agricultural losses they cause every year. The methods are widely applicable and could be used to study other agricultural pests.

What new skills have you gained through your research?

In addition to my individual work with hydroponics and gel plates, I contributed to several other projects in the lab. These projects studied various predictors of nematode infection, including the presence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria, age of plant at infection, and plant genotype. Through these projects, I gained many skills, such as plant care in growth chambers and greenhouses, harvesting of plants, and recognizing nematode colonies and bacterial colonies with microscopy. Additionally, with the help of my principal investigator, I have gained experience with understanding scientific literature in the ecology field and effectively presenting data.