Pallavi Kawatra

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

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

I am doing research with Dr. Bela Peethambaran and my efforts primarily focused on Parkinson's Disease and the neuroprotective mechanisms of an extract from Achillea Millefolium on differentiated neuroblastoma cells, which mimic the mature neuronal cells that are damaged from Parkinson's Disease. Prior testing has shown that this extract has decreased Parkinsonian neuronal cell death by nearly 30% and currently I am researching the underlying biochemical mechanisms by which the extract is providing neuroprotection.

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

The most fascinating aspect of my research is the ability to visualize how neuronal cells in our brain would be affected by Parkinson’s Disease, and the power of the extract to protect these neurons from damage. Through various techniques, I am able to see for myself how changes in protein levels downstream of well known pathways can determine if a neuronal cell can continue to live or not. It is incredible to see how what can be perceived as such an insignificant change can alter the course of not only the neuronal cell but the personality, actions, and emotions of a human being suffering from Parkinson’s Disease.

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

Beyond simply mastering laboratory skills, I have learned the skills of being a patient learner and teacher. I am able to learn new techniques which I have never been exposed to previous, such as working with Drosophila. It is an interesting transition from in vitro (cells) to in vivo (Drosophila flies) and I have appreciated the challenges that it has brought forth. I have also been given the opportunity to teach the younger students in our lab necessary techniques to achieve results for their data. Being on the other side of the table, and teaching students has humbled me greatly and I learn so much from them along the way.

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

Time and time again, my patience was tested when conducting western blots to understand the neuroprotective mechanism of Fraction 4 via the P13K/AKT/mTOR pathway. I struggled immensely with my western blots, I struggled to get results in a timely manner, I just struggled. Each day of an unsuccessful western blot to me was a day wasted and precious time lost. Leading my life as a “type A” person, these incompletions felt like stop signs to me, that research and I were not meant for each other.

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

Now I could describe the data I was able to gather from the western blots, but my most wholesome achievement in research is beyond data points. Over time I found this alluring parallel between my research experience and the everyday experiences of a physician. I want to extract new information, ways of practice, and effective treatment methods to give every patient an individualized approach to care. A single opportunity to synthesize years of experience and education to make a single effective decision for my patients makes all those years that much more worth it. Research had entertained a lifelong yearning I had to for making split-second decisions for the matter of major consequences. Research has allowed me to create lifelong relationships with people who have made me the decisive, passionate, and driven individual I am.

6.     Tell us something interesting about yourself.

One of my favorite ways to relieve stress is to dance! I love dancing in any form, whether it’s Indian cultural dance, in my basement doing Zumba, or just making Tik Toks with friends! Dancing it out is the best way to let all of the negative feelings out and bring in all of the positivity.

7. How has the COVID pandemic impacting you and how are you coping with it?

I believe the COVID pandemic has taught each of us a great deal about ourselves, both as individuals and as a community. Personally, I have learned about the importance of family and valuing each moment of our lives without being so concerned for the future. For the majority of my life, I have taken each day for granted and not appreciated what I was so blessed to have in front of me. Everyday of being alive during this pandemic is a gift, and I valued every single moment I was able to spend being surrounded by my loved ones. I have learned to be okay with being in my house all day and felt fortunate to be able to pick up on hobbies, such as baking and reading, that I had not done for a long time.