Background: No science background prior to the Bridge to Bioscience Program. Previously working as a DJ and bartender.
Program: Stem Cell Certificate and Stem Cell Internship
Stem Cell Internship: Kampmann Lab, UCSF
Current Career: Cell Engineering Associate, Synthego
"Before I started the CCSF’s biotech program, I had been working in the nightlife industry for almost a decade as a DJ and bartender, mostly because I found it really easy, a relatively low time commitment, and a quick way to make money.
Although I spent a long time working outside of science, it was always my passion. I studied microbiology at SF State for two years before leaving to work full-time. I also completed an environmental toxicology summer program at McDaniel College in Maryland assaying ecosystems for organic, inorganic, and genetic pollution.
When I first started taking classes at CCSF, I worried that I might not have enough time with work to do my best in school. I discovered that I could manage it, though, since the program is fairly streamlined, just giving students what they need to be successful in biotech. It was actually easy to stay on top of my studying and assignments. I found the program fun and engaging, reminding me why I love science and showing me how to reach my career goals."
Darrin_Goodness_CCSF_CIRM_Stem_Cell_Internship_CRISPR_tau_oligomerization_Kampmann_Lab.pptxStem Cell Internship Project Title: Investigating Tau Oligomerization in iPSC Derived Neurons Using CRISPR Screens
Project Abstract: Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and related dementias are the 6th leading cause of death in the United States and cost $290 billion to treat in 2019. Currently, no treatment exists that slows or halts the progression of AD or any neurodegenerative disease. A hallmark of AD and related dementias are intracellular aggregates of misfolded protein Microtubule Associated Protein Tau (tau) in neuronal dendrites called Neurofibrillary Tangles (NFTs). Overall, the cellular mechanisms regulating disease-associated tau remain undefined.
The goal of this project is to use iPSC derived neurons (iNeurons) to elucidate specific genes and pathways involved in tau oligomerization. Understanding genes that control tau oligomerization could reveal potential therapeutic targets. Here, we utilize an innovative CRISPRi screening platform combined with Next Generation Sequencing to identify genes that modulate tau. Next steps include validation of these hits in other iPSC lines as well as mechanistic follow-up screens to validate the most relevant genes modulating tau oligomerization. Identified genes will be future potential drug targets for preventing or ameliorating tau related neurodegeneration.
Darrin working at Synthego assuring the quality of mRNA used for Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.
Human iPSCs differentiated into neurons by Darrin at UCSF.
Darrin discussing images of mouse embryonic stem cells they differentiated at CCSF in the Stem Cell Technology Course.
