I examined the effects of selomethionine (SeMet) on metal-mediated oxidative damage of DNA. This study focuses on Cu(II), Fe(II), and Cr(III), due to their biological significance. SeMet is believed to have both a pro-oxidant and anti-oxidant effect on DNA, depending on the concentration of the SeMet that is introduced into the system. Using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), I quantified these effects with varying concentrations of SeMet in the presence of the metal ions. UV-vis spectroscopy elucidated the metal coordination of SeMet with Cu(II) and Cr(III) ions, independently. Because Fe(II) is readily oxidized in air and is not visible in the UV region, cyclic voltammetry was employed to observe metal coordination. Studies of this nature have significant applications to cancer treatments, as well as potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, because of the potential alleviation effects of SeMet on the free radicals that are created by the metal ions reacting with DNA.
Hackathon Experiences
I have had the opportunity to participate in several Hackathons − a 36 hour engineering competition where 4 person, multi-disciplinary teams are tasked with developing an innovative project and bringing that idea to fruition through a physical prototype. Hackathons have provided me with the ability to exercise my problem solving and design skills in a fast-paced, high-energy, and challenging environment. February 2016, my team and I developed a dog daycare system that launched a tennis ball, and dispensed food and water; these actions were activated through a web application. As the feed and water systems lead, I was able to fully apply the design process, in addition to practicing my communication skills in a multidisciplinary setting. This project was awarded second place in the Hardware Hacks division, as well as the AT&T API prize. The Hackathon experience strongly emphasizes organization, innovation, and effective work allocation, skills which will help me contribute to the forward-thinking, and fluid environment of my future technical endeavors.
