Angelina Dong: Chemotherapy Neuropathy Research – Woodrow Wilson Fellow
Johns Hopkins Student Researches Potential Chemotherapy Side Effect Treatment
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Angelina Dong, a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University majoring in Neuroscience and Medicine, Science and the Humanities, is investigating a potential treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) as a Woodrow Wilson Undergraduate Research Fellow.Her research,conducted at the Hoke lab under Dr. Ahmet hoke at the Hopkins School of Medicine, focuses on the role of the MAP4K4 gene and a corresponding inhibitor.
Dong’s project,titled “MAP4K4 Inhibition as a promising Treatment for Chemo-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Effects of MAP4K4 Inhibition on Paclitaxel Antineoplastic Capabilities,” aims to determine if inhibiting MAP4K4 can mitigate CIPN without interfering with the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy and CIPN
Peripheral neuropathy, damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, affects approximately 2.4% of the global population as of 2022, increasing to 8% in older adults. Treatment options vary widely depending on severity, ranging from physical therapy to surgery.
CIPN, a common side effect of chemotherapy, often manifests as nerve damage in the hands and feet. Paclitaxel, a chemotherapy drug used to treat cancers like breast and ovarian cancer, is known to cause CIPN. As an antineoplastic drug, paclitaxel prevents cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis.
The Role of MAP4K4 in CIPN
MAP4K4, a Ste20 protein kinase, regulates various cellular functions. Research suggests it plays a role in the JNK neuronal stress response pathway, which can lead to axonal degeneration in neurons affected by CIPN.
Dong explained that MAP4K4 overexpression is associated with poorer prognoses in several cancers, including pancreatic, colorectal, and lung adenocarcinoma. Her research investigates whether a newly discovered MAP4K4 inhibitor can prevent axonal degeneration caused by CIPN, and whether it will impact the efficacy of chemotherapy.
Research Methodology and Future Directions
Dong’s research involves treating cancer cells with the MAP4K4 inhibitor, both independently and in combination with chemotherapy. She will then measure cell viability and assess the chemotherapy’s effectiveness under different conditions. The project will initially focus on in vitro experiments before progressing to studies involving in vivo mice models.
Securing Funding and Advice for Aspiring Researchers
Dong learned about the Woodrow Wilson Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program through the Student involvement Fair and received support from her principal investigator in applying. She emphasized the importance of utilizing resources like URSCA drop-in hours and seeking feedback on grant proposals.
Dong advises aspiring researchers to demonstrate their passion in their writing and to follow the specific structure required for grant proposals. She also stresses the importance of open communication and teamwork within the lab environment, stating, “A lab is a team environment, so you should strive to be a part of the research team.”
Dong plans to apply to MD or MD/PhD programs to continue her research at the intersection of neuroscience and oncology.