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Polygence Scholar2024
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shivi kumar

Class of 2027Dallas, TX, Texas

About

Projects

  • "Genetic Engineering and MicroRNAs: Comparative Genomic Analysis of Brain Tumors and Neurodevelopmental Diseases" with mentor Teryn (Sept. 6, 2024)

shivi's Symposium Presentation

Project Portfolio

Genetic Engineering and MicroRNAs: Comparative Genomic Analysis of Brain Tumors and Neurodevelopmental Diseases

Started Nov. 9, 2023

Abstract or project description

This research investigates the genetic mutations and underpinnings of brain tumors and neurodevelopmental disorders, with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases, brain tumors, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The literature review synthesizes the genetic landscapes of glioblastoma multiforme, meningioma, medulloblastoma, and pituitary adenoma. Central to this exploration are microRNAs (miRNAs), potent non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression. MiRNAs, typically about 22 nucleotides in length, act as post-transcriptional regulators by degrading target mRNA or inhibiting its translation, thus modulating gene expression. Their functional implications in numerous diseases highlight their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and personalized medicine, promising more targeted and efficacious treatments. The review delves into the role of miRNAs in cellular growth and differentiation, illustrating their dual implications in the uncontrolled proliferation of brain tumors and the dysregulated neurodevelopment in autism. Through comparative genetic analysis and bioinformatics, this study seeks to identify shared genetic mutations and miRNA expressions bridging these conditions. The integration of genomic insights with clinical strategies is emphasized, spotlighting novel therapeutic candidates and refining existing treatments. Advances in genetic engineering, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, have revolutionized genome editing with precision, efficiency, and flexibility. Originating from a bacterial genome editing system, CRISPR-Cas9 allows targeted DNA modifications, enabling advancements in disease modeling, functional genomic studies, and targeted therapeutics.The review critically evaluates the role of genetic engineering and gene editing in brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases, exploring the potential of CRISPR-Cas9 in treating identified mutations. The transformative potential of gene-editing technology is highlighted, emphasizing its role in precision medicine and the development of personalized treatment strategies. Innovative therapeutic approaches and drug development based on genomic insights are discussed, with real-world applications and outcomes analyzed. This extensive review aims to enhance understanding of the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in play, harnessing these insights for diagnostic and therapeutic breakthroughs. The review also covers tumor detection and neuropathology. The conclusion provides a summation of key discoveries, reflecting on the study's contributions and its potential impact. Emerging trends, unsolved questions, and advancements in genomic research and genetic engineering are identified, projecting the future trajectory of the field. This work aspires to be a cornerstone contribution to neurogenetics and neuro-oncology, inspiring further research and innovation, and paving the way for more targeted and effective therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Neurodegenerative Diseases, Brain Tumors, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Genetic Engineering, Bioinformatics, Genetic Sequencing, CRISPR-Cas9, Precision Medicine, Tumor Detection, Neuropathology, Glioblastoma Multiforme, Meningioma, Medulloblastoma, Pituitary Adenoma.