Investigating the Neural Underpinnings of Nausea

Allaha Mohiby, SAS ’25, Pomona, NY

This summer, I was immersed in pre-clinical research within the Borner Lab at the University of Southern California. Under the guidance of Dr. Tito Borner, lab technician Sophia Fischer, and PhD student Serena Gao, I contributed to the ongoing exploration of the neural mechanisms underlying nausea and emesis. These debilitating side effects of numerous treatments, from cancer therapies to metabolic disease medications, significantly impact patients’ quality of life and negatively affect treatment outcome.

My role involved a diverse range of responsibilities, from aiding in the conduction of in vivo pharmacological and behavioral studies to mastering intricate techniques like immunohistochemistry and qPCR. I learned more about surgical procedures, including intracranial surgeries, which are essential for manipulating neural circuits in rats. Additionally, I honed my skills in data analysis, imaging of samples, and drug solution preparation, contributing to the lab’s overall efficiency.

A highlight of the summer was delving into the complexities of experimental design. I learned how to meticulously plan and aid in the execution of experiments, from selecting appropriate animal models to interpreting results. This process deepened my understanding of the scientific method and the importance of rigorous data collection. I was able to participate in studies involving operant conditioning paradigms allowing exploration of the motivation behind eating behaviors. Furthermore, participating in journal club discussions and presentations broadened my scientific perspective and exposed me to the latest advancements in the field.

The lab environment fostered a collaborative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. I had the opportunity to learn from experienced researchers, discuss ideas, and contribute to the team’s efforts. This exposure to different research perspectives has ignited my passion for scientific inquiry and solidified my understanding of the inner workings of a lab.

Through this immersive experience, I developed a strong foundation in neuroscience research, including essential laboratory techniques and critical thinking skills. I am eager to apply this knowledge to future research endeavors and contribute to future developments of novel treatments.

This is part of a series of posts by recipients of the 2024 Career Services Summer Funding Grant. We’ve asked funding recipients to reflect on their summer experiences and talk about the industries in which they spent their summer. You can read the entire series here

By Career Services
Career Services