On the Road to Research

For students who are interested in going into research, Davis says that doing undergraduate research is a good place to start.

Greka, who hopes to obtain an MD-Ph.D., says that she has enjoyed the research she has done for her thesis.

"It has been a very good experience for me," Greka says.

Greka is finishing work in a vision research laboratory at Boston Children's Hospital on her project: "Molecular Cloning and Characterization of GABAc Receptors in Mouse Retina."

GABA, which binds to the GABAc receptor, is a major inhibitory substance in the brain. If GABA is impaired, the result is an over excitation of retinal cells, which could result in glaucoma.

Greka's work involved the cloning of GABAc in mouse retinal cells.

The mouse model represents a major advantage for scientists which will allow them to undertake genetic manipulation and behavioral studies. By studying GABA receptors in mouse models, Greka says "we will be able to see actual impairments" in a living system.

Abhinav Seth '98, who is also applying to MD-Ph.D. programs, is broadening his research skills by studying how insulin can be affected by the levels a drug that alters the proteins that control insulin expression.

Seth, who is also concentrating in the biochemical sciences, is conducting research to develop a method to control specific gene therapies.

"We're just trying to make two proteins now," he said.

The 20 to 30 hours a week Seth spends in the lab are mostly behind computers or working with cells.

Working in the lab with about 30 other students, Seth says that sometimes computers and cells do not provide enough entertainment.

"One guy brought a pinata into the lab once," Seth says.

Eyes Toward Medical School