Instead of taking a break from the books over the summer, four IMP students spent the past few months summer tackling research projects with the UBC Faculty of Medicine Summer Student Research Program (FoM SSRP). Currently open to non-MD undergraduates and MD students after years 1 and 3, the FoM SSRP offers students an opportunity to explore their interests in medical research under the supervision of a principal investigator who holds an appointment in the faculty.
“Exposure to research during their education encourages students to pursue medical research in their careers, and, for those students in the MD program, improves their appreciation of the role that research can play in improving patient care and health outcomes,” explained Linda Herbert, Student Research & Education Coordinator, FoM.
Now that summer is fading, we caught up with one of those students – Sofía Zhang-Jiang (IMP Class of 2022)– to find out more about her project.
Sofía Zhang-Jiang (IMP Class of 2022)
Title of Project: Cerebrospinal Fluid Metagenomics and Cytokine Profiling in Pediatric Patients with Central Nervous System Inflammation
Please briefly explain your project.
The project study team is looking to characterize the causes of central nervous system (CNS) inflammation in patients with encephalitis (brain inflammation) using a new technique called metagenomics. Metagenomics entails sequencing all genetic material from a sample – in this case, of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) – to identify any pathogens present. This method is more time- and resource-efficient as it allows researchers to test for known infectious agents and identify novel or unexpected microbes at the same time.
We are also looking at how certain inflammation-causing proteins express themselves in CSF by assessing biomarkers. Combining comprehensive pathogen detection with the assessment of biomarkers will allow us to differentiate infectious from non-infectious inflammation and impact patient management to improve outcomes.
What are the study’s results? If the study is on-going, what are the expected results at this point?
This study is ongoing. We expect that specific pathogens predispose patients to or cause CNS inflammation. We also hypothesize that different pathogens are associated with specific cell-signalling proteins, allowing the development of biomarkers.
What is the significance of this study?
This unique multidisciplinary study will be the first in Canada to develop and validate a CSF metagenomic technique that is both sensitive and specific.
Where did you complete the research for this project?
BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.
What drew you to this project?
I am interested in pediatric neurology, and this project was an excellent way to gain some exposure to that field. The study itself is seeking answers that have the potential to change patient management, which makes it very relevant!