Amanda Chen

Project

GHSR-1a Modulates Tumor-Induced Lipid Oxidation Independently of Ghrelin in Cachectic Mice

Cachexia is a debilitating syndrome that accelerates muscle and fat wasting, affecting up to 80% of cancer patients with no current effective treatment. This condition is associated with weakness, fatigue, and poor tolerance to chemotherapy. Recently proposed as a therapeutic option due to its anabolic effects on preserving muscle and adipose tissue, ghrelin has been reported to attenuate Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC)-induced weight loss and lipolysis, also partially regulated by its only known receptor growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a). Tumor-induced lipolysis is associated with an alteration of substrate utilization. However, the extent to which these effects of ghrelin relate to substrate utilization (lipid oxidation and carbohydrate oxidation, LO and CHO) remains unclear.

What I learned

This project helped me shape my interest in molecular biology. Although metabolism was an area I wasn’t familiar with initially, it really tied in the academic knowledge in compact experiments, allowing me to deepen my scope of understanding in cell functioning. The research itself is an incredible experience that I couldn’t have gained elsewhere.

Advice for future applicants

Make use of the resources available provided by school, whether it be the great mentors and peers, opportunities and equipment. Most importantly, enjoy exploring as the project goes.

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