Anika Consul

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Autumn 2024

Research Project: Hyperglycemia Associated with Diabetes as a Driver of Monocyte Lipid Uptake

Project Description: My project investigates the glucose-mediated increase in CD36 expression increases the lipid uptake of monocytes. I will use bone marrow monocytes from mice, and stimulate them in glucose conditions that represent normal and elevated glucose conditions. After a 24 hour stimulation, I will stimulate the monocytes with flourescently labeled (DiI) VLDL for 30 minutes to investigate if elevated glucose levels augment VLDL uptake. The monocyte VLDL uptake will be analyzed by immunofluorescent microscopy. This research is really important because if there is a relationship between hyperglycemia, CD36 and VLDL binding, and augmented lipid droplet formation, this project could build our understanding of lipid-related mechanisms in diabetes complications and help build strategies to reduce the incidence of CVD in people with diabetes.

What have you learned throughout your research project? I have learned a lot about conducting and designing experiments on my own and analyzing my results to generate meaningful discoveries from them. I have also learned so much about the complications of diabetes from not only my projects but also other members of the lab which has been so inspiring. I am so grateful for my mentors and how supportive they have been to the development of my learning and scientific skills.

What piece of advice do you have for future applicants? Don’t be afraid to ask questions and step out of your comfort zone! Research is a big learning process and having a growth mindset is so important. Forming a close relationship with your mentor will also be invaluable to your growth.