Heba Ijaz

UROP Award

Investigating the Role of SIRTI in Cataractogenesis

Heba Ijaz worked with Dr. Yan Dai in the Cancer Center at Boston University this summer on a project focusing on the role of SIRT1. SIRT1 is a protein known to be involved in various processes associated with aging, especially in cataract formation and progression. Heba studied SIRT1’s effect on the human lens epithelial cell survival and proliferation under oxidative stress conditions and its effect on crystallin expression, a family of proteins that has been previously linked to lens transparency.

Heba was excited to work on this project because of the possibility of presenting a new direction for cataract research, as many aspects of the mechanism through which cataracts form remain unknown. The most enjoyable and rewarding parts of her research were participating in data analysis and subsequent decision-making processes with her mentor, and that she was able to make a significant contribution not only to the team, but also to the field of cataract research. Currently, the only effective treatment for age-related cataracts is surgery. However, surgical procedures are expensive and, in some cases, could result in further health complications. The risk of complications increases for patients who have secondary eye diseases. This study paves the way for future research that could provide alternatives to surgery by identifying SIRT1 as a target for cataract prevention.

Heba says her summer research project was a valuable learning experience and has helped shape her career interests. After graduation, she plans to work as a drug development researcher in a biotech or pharmaceutical company. She highly recommends that other students pursue undergraduate research opportunities, because “research is a great way to apply what you know, learn and master new concepts, and better understand your own interests.” Heba believes undergraduate research provides the ideal environment to cultivate professional development skills, and she advises students to enrich their research experience by actively participating in the project, asking questions, making suggestions, and forming relationships with fellow researchers. Her research results are promising, and may result in a future publication.