BORna MARKUSIC

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1.     Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

I am in Dr. Wang’s protein kinase research laboratory. Our project is about how proteins in our cells transmit signals to nucleus and how aberrant signaling leads to development of cancer. Specific protein that we are interested is called RAF, and it is the most commonly mutated protein in the’MAPK’ pathway we are focusing on.

2. What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

What I am finding most fascinating about my research is the level of complexity of these proteins. It looks very much like an unstructured blob of atoms but almost every residue carries a specific and important function. Mutation at one place can lead to cancer progression which adds to the wonder and complexity.

3. What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

I am learning computational chemistry, specifically, how to use Molecular Dynamics simulation on biomolecules. These allow us to theoretically simulate proteins in its physiological state and gather information on their structural dynamics and changes occurring when adding ligands. A lof of literature reading is required to understand what to expect and what to look for. I am also doing bench work methods such as protein purification, pull-down assay, SPR instrumentation, bunch of western blots and gel electrophoresis, etc.

4. What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

Well, simulations are slow and data heavy. It takes about two weeks to run a 500 nanoseconds simulation, which is sometimes not enough considering major biological changes occur on a microsecond scale. Other challenge is simply not enough sampling. This is why literature reading is important as well as being wise with system setup. 

5. How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

USURF experience made me realize how I have just scratched the surface of our lab’s problem. There is much work to be done, with not much time. Still, it is really satisfying getting a grasp on some more complicated issues and understanding how to test them and what expect from them 

6. Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I come from Croatia, where I was born and raised. I play tennis in our varsity team. I play guitar and drums in my free time and generally love to read.