Discovering Life: My Path in Biology & Health

ZFYVE28 Insulin Sensitivity Research

"When my doctor said, 'Yours is four times that of the average person,' I was shocked. I always felt tired and hungry no matter how much I ate. The culprit: insulin resistance."

This diagnosis pushed me to understand the science behind my persistent health issues.As someone who has struggled with obesity, I was keen to find effective ways to lose weight, but my journey was challenging. In my biology classes, I learned about insulin resistance, where the body fails to respond to normal insulin levels, leading to higher insulin requirements. This explained my weight issues and sparked my interest in solutions.

I collaborated with Professor Yibo Wang from the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, focusing on the regulation of ZFYVE28 on insulin sensitivity in adipocytes. I conducted experiments such as the induction of differentiation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and lentiviral transduction of cells. This hands-on research furthered my understanding of insulin resistance and its links to obesity and Type II diabetes.

On my own, I learned that insulin resistance causes cells to limit glucose intake, leading to excessive hunger and poor diets. The pancreas then overproduces insulin due to glucose build-up, which can result in Type II diabetes. This realization drove me to contribute to global health efforts to combat insulin resistance.

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iGEM Project

"Through iGEM, I was able to take my passion for biology beyond the classroom and into a competitive project setting. Our team worked on developing a synthetic biology solution aimed at addressing a pressing environmental issue. I focused on the biology aspect of our project, working on gene regulation and expression, which deepened my understanding of molecular biology."

Following this experience, I participated in the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, where my team achieved a global gold medal. This accomplishment not only enhanced my research skills but also taught me the importance of collaboration in scientific endeavors.

Visit HS-China iGEM 2023 page

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Engineering Summer Academy at Penn

"One of the most impactful experiences during my academic journey was attending the Engineering Summer Academy in Biotechnology at the University of Pennsylvania. The program was structured into three key parts: lectures on topics like cancer and cystic fibrosis, detailed experimental lessons, and a group research project."

My team worked on developing a novel therapy for intervertebral disc reherniation, combining a PCL/SF scaffold with the anti-inflammatory drug IL-1Ra. This experience introduced me to advanced concepts like bioreactors and rheology, and significantly enhanced my ability to efficiently read and discuss academic papers.

It also provided me with practical skills in translating scientific theory into hands-on research through collaboration.

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Academic Achievements

"Biology has always fascinated me, particularly how the human body functions and influences overall health. My interest deepened during AP Biology and additional courses, where I studied topics like metabolism and nutrition."

Learning about insulin resistance in the endocrine system sparked a deeper understanding of biology and nutrition, motivating me to adopt a healthier lifestyle. My participation in competitions such as USABO 2024, BBO 2024, HOSA Bio D2 2024, and Environthon 2023 broadened my perspective and reinforced my passion for health sciences.

My academic journey is driven by a desire to contribute to research addressing global health issues like obesity and diabetes. I look forward to expanding this passion at the university level and exploring further applications of biology and nutrition.

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Public Service Announcement

I not only focus on human physiological health but also consider the mental health of my peers, which I believe is a major aspect of overall human well-being. This perspective motivated me and my teammates to participate in the HOSA competition, where we worked on a public service announcement. Together, we were able to raise awareness and earned an award for our efforts.

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