Background
In this project we were tasked with solving a world problem using one of the forms of biotechnology we learned throughout this year. For this project my group and I chose to revisit the genetic disease project, zeroing in on neurological diseases that were genetic and affected by proteins. For a disease that fits this criteria we chose to find a solution to Parkinson’s Disease. This is a Neurological disease that causes a decrease in Dopamine levels as well as the death of brain cells which can lead to memory issues and troubles controlling limb movements.
Presentation
Content
- Parkinson’s disease- Genetic, protein based disease that develops with old age and causes the death of brain cells which can even lead to brain death.
- DRD1 Gene- Gene that causes mood to falter and depression in those who suffer from Parkinson’s Disease.
- L-DOPA- Current Antidepressant being prescribed to PD patients to improve mood.
- Gene Therapy- The practice of replacing mutated genes with non mutated genes to prevent unwanted mutations that could cause complications later in life. This is usually by introducing new cells without the mutation via direct injection into desired area.
- PARK7- Mutated gene being inserted into mice to cause PD.
Reflection
In this project once again I wish I had contributed more, and was not held back to the impending stress from finals. In this project I felt I was able to present well and help direct the group in deciding in a topic. However on this project I felt I could have taken better leadership and tried to offer to take more of the work without worrying it would interfere with studying and taking on more aspects of research. Overall I am quite proud of my final project for sophomore year stem and am content with the results and our proposed solution and I plan to stay up to date with developments on progress with Parkinson's Disease even after this project has ended.