Julia Kushnick
Pronouns:
Research Mentor(s): Erin Giles
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Kinesiology / Kinesiology
Program: UROP
Session: Session 2 (10:00am – 10:50am)
Authors:
Abstract
In Dr. Giles’ lab, we have been researching how obesity is linked to breast cancer. This research is conducted using rodent models of obesity and breast cancer. Animals are fed a high-fat diet to induce obesity, and body composition, including % body fat, is measured throughout the study. Rats are injected with a carcinogen to promote the formation of tumors. Ongoing studies have assessed the impact of weight loss, exercise, and other pharmacological agents on tumor outcomes. My work has been to understand how ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can play a role in reducing cancer risk and tumor progression. . Currently, my job in the lab has primarily been to gain more knowledge through reading scientific journals. Ibuprofen can reduce adipose tissue in specific parts of the body, such as the liver and the kidneys; the drug also reduces inflammation which lowers some of the major side effects of obesity. Dr. Giles has created an excel sheet for interns to provide a written summary of each scientific study they have read. This work will be used to help understand why obesity increases the risk of developing breast -after menopause It also seeks to develop strategies for cancer prevention and treatments that could mitigate tumor growth. Exploring the mechanisms underlying obesity-associated breast cancer will benefit women with obesity who are at increased risk of developing this disease.
