Week Seven & Eight: Weeks of Insights and Analysis

Greetings, dear readers! Join me as I recount the exciting developments and unexpected challenges of Week 7 and Week 8, where my research journey took intriguing turns. Let’s dive right into the highlights!

Week 7 began with a focused effort on Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on my ACTH-independent Cushing’s adrenal samples. To initiate the basic analysis, I chose to perform IHC for HSD3B2 and CYB5A. Why these markers? Well, HSD3B2 is a key indicator of the cortisol-producing regions of the tissue, serving as a control to confirm the excessive cortisol production we expect in these adrenals. Additionally, HSD3B2 staining helps us visualize the histochemical architecture of the tissue. On the other hand, CYB5A is a marker for the androgen-producing zone of the adrenal tissue. This is significant in understanding the virilization observed in most of these patients (Cushing’s is more common in women). Virilization is a medical term that refers to the development of masculine physical characteristics in females, often caused by excess production of androgen hormones.

Following these two stains, we would proceed with further steps to gain deeper insights into the samples. On the culinary front, I explored an Italian restaurant, indulging in an authentic version of pizza that left me thoroughly impressed.

Week 8 commenced with completing the CYB5A staining, and much to our surprise, we observed unexpected staining patterns. We now had two distinct groups of samples: one with minimal CYB5A expression, contrary to our expectations, and the other exhibiting co-expression of HSD3B2 and CYB5A. The latter finding aligned with our theoretical hypothesis, suggesting excess androgen production that potentially underlies the patients’ symptoms.

As the week progressed, I dedicated a day to analyzing the stains and crafting an abstract for the end-of-summer symposium. This symposium would be a platform for presenting my research, where I will deliver a 15-minute presentation. It was an exciting opportunity to share my findings and contribute to the scientific community.

On Friday, I engaged in a pivotal meeting with my advisor, to plan my Week 9 as it will mark the conclusion of my wet lab work. Wrapping up my research is challenging, as my advisor presented a new protocol for Immunofluorescence (IF) to validate the co-expression findings. IF would be a crucial step in solidifying the evidence and advancing this project. It is a technique used to visualize and analyze the distribution and localization of specific proteins within cells or tissues. This method involves the use of fluorescently-labeled antibodies that bind to target proteins, allowing researchers to observe their presence and location under a fluorescent microscope.

With only two weeks remaining in my research journey, I eagerly anticipate the final steps and conclusions. Join me in my last blog, as I share the triumphs, lessons, and insights gathered in the closing phase of this extraordinary adventure.

Until then, stay curious and determined in your own endeavors!

Warm regards,

Kavya