Alisha Shah
Modeling Kidney Disease-Associated Regulatory DNA in Zebrafish
Although many genetic risk factors for kidney disease have been identified, most are located in regions of DNA that regulate gene activity rather than code directly for proteins. My research at the Loeb Lab focuses on these regulatory regions, known as enhancers, which control when and where genes are turned on. By using zebrafish, whose transparent bodies allow us to more easily visualize biological processes, I can test these DNA elements by attaching them to fluorescent markers that glow when active. This approach allows me to study how these regulatory elements function at different stages of life and how they may be disrupted by disease-related genetic variants. Ultimately, this research aims to improve our understanding of how genetic differences influence kidney disease development.
Message To Sponsor
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue my research this summer. Research has been a central part of my college experience, and I truly value the chance to keep working with my lab while expanding my hands-on skills and knowledge. Thank you for your commitment to supporting students like me and making experiences like this possible.