The Pathways to Explorers Program at Fred Hutchinson cancer center was truly an engaging experience. This program allowed me insight on lab protocols, taught me skills such as the proper handling of micropipettes, introduced me to various professionals, and increased my knowledge about cancer and the importance of finding a cure.
Micro pipetting! Fruit fly sorting contest! Group Photo :)
Throughout the program, I had the honor of meeting various professionals, and specifically learning about their line of work. These talks allowed me to gain knowledge on topics ranging from CAR T-cell therapy, liquid biopsies, bioethics in conjunction with AI, and imposterism. One such talk focused on the story of Kristin Kleinhofer, and the tumultuous journey she faced as she battled acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Kristin was diagnosed with ALL in 2010. However, after two years of chemotherapy treatment, she went into remission. Nevertheless, one and a half years later Kristens cancer came back, but this time the chemotherapy treatment was not effective. Kristin was forced to look for alternative routes such as participating in an experimental chemotherapy regimen at Stanford university, while also looking for a bone marrow donor match. With limited options, Kristin had only one choice: CAR-T cell therapy.
CAR-T cell therapy, more formally known as chimeric antigen receptor therapy, is an immunotherapy created by Dr. Carl June (an immunotherapy professor at Pennsylvania's school of medicine). Kristin took part in a CAR-T cell clinical trial led by Dr. David Maloney at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research center. The first step in CAR-T cell therapy is to extract T-cells from the patient. This is commonly done by drawing blood from the patient, and then using a machine to separate the white blood cells. The T-cells are then sent to a lab where they are genetically modified to include a chimeric antigen receptor. The chimeric antigen receptor allows the T-cells to bind to a protein called CD19. The T-cell then becomes activated, releasing cytotoxic chemicals, and ultimately causing cell death. Overall, the CAR T-cell therapy involves the usage of engineered T-cells to kill cells present with the CD19 protein. Learning about this cancer therapy really sparked my interest in cancer research. Through understanding Kristens story I was able to grasp the importance of cancer research and its impact on patients.
This program allowed me to explore and learn about topics I had never been introduced to. Through talking with researchers, engaging in labs such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and more, I have been able to explore and increase my passion in laboratory research. I have learned about different aspects of research, made countless memories, and most of all made friends.
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