Blog Post #3

Findings and Future Studies

Throughout this project, I silenced a gene related to the development of fruit flies and investigated how it impacted embryonic development. The results of this study confirmed that the Spookier gene plays a significant role in the embryonic development of Drosophila melanogaster. Due to the reduced number of larvae when flies exhibited RNAI, my results suggest that the Sookier gene is involved in critical developmental processes, possibly through the production of growth hormones. Interestingly, my research suggested that the Spookier gene is not essential for embryonic viability.

Future research would help to better understand the extent of Spookier’s role in the development of Drosophila. Building upon my research, future studies can investigate the effect of RNAi of the Spookier gene on other measures of embryonic development. This includes things like the size, weight, and shape of embryos to better understand what specific parts of development Spookier impacts. My research helps the community practice, outlining a convenient method to induce RNAi for the halloween genes. Additionally, future research can look into Spookier’s role in the development of larvae. My protocols also allow future researchers a method to look at embryonic development, for other Halloween genes, using a larvae quantity assay. Findings from these studies would help to further enhance the understanding of genes in the development process. This knowledge could contribute to a broader academic conversation on gene regulation and its implications in developmental biology, potentially leading to insights in genetic disorders and novel therapeutic approaches.

Reflection on Paper and Presentaiton

Throughout both the final presentation and academic paper, I was able to sharpen my scientific writing skills and practice important presentation skills. As a part of the presentation, I also learned how to present complex scientific data in a clear and concise manner.This project helped prepare me for a future in scientific research, allowing me to effectively incorporate existing research to support a research method, as well as to confidently present my findings. I can apply these skills in college, for both academic papers and important presentations.

Reflection on Reserach Jouney

Throughout both the final presentation and academic paper, I was able to sharpen my scientific writing skills and practice important presentation skills. As a part of the presentation, I also learned how to present complex scientific data in a clear and concise manner.This project helped prepare me for a future in scientific research, allowing me to effectively incorporate existing research to support a research method, as well as to confidently present my findings. I can apply these skills in college, for both academic papers and important presentations. As a researcher, I learned important lessons in resilience. As a student, I have learned to handle setbacks and to continue, even when things get difficult. Lastly, as a human, I have learned important lessons in time management. Through this project, I've refined my research and analytical skills, which I will apply to my upcoming experiences in research. Additionally, the resilience and collaborative skills I developed will help me where my future takes me, allowing me to tackle complex projects and achieve all my goals.

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank Sussane Petri, the PI of the Rock Canyon High School laboratory, for her guidance throughout the experimental design process. I would also like to thank my AP research instructors, Niki Dobos and Bryan McBride, for giving them the tools for success in this project. Lastly, I would like to thank the Douglas County School District for funding and providing the tools for experimentation. Wtihout these people, this project would not have been possible.

Next Adventure

In the fall, I plan on attending, Florida State University, with a major in STEM Entrepreneurship and a minor in biology.