University of New Hampshire
McNair Scholar, 2024
Major: Biomedical Science
Mentor: Dr. Linqing Li
Research Title: Regulation of Ovarian Cancer Growth by Tuning Hydrogel Mechanical and Biochemical Properties
Abstract:
According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 87 women will develop ovarian cancer. Recognizing this statistic underscores the importance of readily available and advancing treatment options. However, due to the personalized nature of cancer, treatments tend to be both expensive and potentially harmful to the body, i.e. chemotherapy. A brand-new approach is being proposed to address this challenge: employing extracellular matrix-infused hydrogels for testing cancer cells, which can be customized to meet individual needs and circumstances. These hydrogels are composed of a polysaccharide sugar known as Dextran Methacrylate, with UV radiation serving to regulate the stiffness of the gel. Additionally, four extracellular matrix proteins will be utilized to influence the growth of ovarian cancer cells across various stiffness conditions. Should it be determined through many physical and microscopy tests that cancer cells can be directed to grow in a specific manner, it may be deemed possible to align these cells more closely with those of the patient. This alignment could lead to a more biomimetic and realistic representation, in which the final step would be the testing of cancer drugs on the extracellular matrix-infused hydrogels. By harnessing this innovative testing platform, it may be possible to achieve more tailored and effective treatments for ovarian cancer, ultimately improving outcomes for patients. This approach could revolutionize how cancer treatments are developed and administered, offering hope for a future where personalized medicine is more accessible and impactful.
