Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) cancer is a vigorous and deadly brain cancer. GBM cells are very motile and infiltrate regions of the brain that are surgically inoperable which is why they’re so deadly. Research has shown that GBM cancer cells are present in the perivascular niche and migrate along areas of higher stiffnesses such as blood vessels and the white matter of the brain. The goal of my research is to develop a 3D model of the GBM microenvironment to study GBM cell invasion. In order to replicate this, U87 glioblastoma cells are encapsulated in a soft poly-ethylene glycol hydrogel. The stiff area of the “brain” is mimicked through a polyacrylamide fiber encapsulated within the poly-ethylene glycol hydrogel. The cellular movement of the U87 cancer cells in the hydrogel along the polyacrylamide fiber are observed.

Dr. Zustiak has spent countless hours discussing and reforming the scope of her student’s projects. Her dedication to meeting weekly and always checking in not only academically but personally has shaped her students to be the researchers they are today. Dr. Zustiak goes above and beyond in her abilities of mentoring by not only guiding but challenging her students. They greatly appreciate continuing to learn and grow from their mentor in the following year.