REU SINE Program at FAU in Dr. Ning Quan's Lab
Ashley Kim '25 conducts research through the REU SINE Program at FAU
Allentown, PA (12/08/2022) — Approximately 9.5% of adults suffer from a depressive illness, and about 18% of people have an anxiety disorder. However, one third of these people do not respond to western medicine. Increased inflammation has been found to be the cause of this issue. Inflammation in the central nervous system can also lead to autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. Our lab focuses on understanding the interactions between the nervous and immune systems through the interleukin-1 receptor through a mouse model. IL-1 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine, meaning that when it is produced, inflammation is promoted. Post mortem, patients with mental illnesses have been found to have higher levels of these cytokines. By understanding the effects of neuronal cytokines, such as IL-1, on behavior and neuronal plasticity, we will be able to come up with better treatments for mental illnesses and autoimmune diseases where western medicine fails.
"I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to partake in such incredible research this past summer. I learned a lot about the process of research and how unexpected it can be at times. As a neuroscience major, this research also provided more insight into the field of neuroscience, and I had a great time in general."
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