Understanding Sex Differences in Cerebral Aneurysms Through Human Blood and Animal Model

Understanding cerebral aneurysm genetics - cerebral aneurysms can be devastating and we are understanding the underlying genetics and sex differences.

Our research focuses on uncovering genetic underlying of cerebral aneurysms and illuminating sex-based disparities through patient samples and a murine mouse mode. 

Project description

Cerebral aneurysms are more common in women than in men, and women tend to experience worse outcomes. Our lab investigates sex differences in cerebral aneurysms, focusing on genomic variations. We are analyzing blood and tissue samples from aneurysm cases using RNA sequencing and cell culture to investigate gene differences on the X chromosome. Additionally, we are developing a mouse model of cerebral aneurysms to further explore these genomic variations. 

Project outcome

This project aims to teach students scientific thinking, essential lab techniques such as qPCR and cell culture, and the process of preparing a manuscript. Highly motivated participants will have opportunities to present their findings at national conferences and take the lead as first authors on peer-reviewed publications. 

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment About a semester 3-5 months
Start time

Spring (January/February 2025)

Summer (May/June of 2025)

In-person, remote, or hybrid? In-Person Project (Can only function with in-person engagement)
Level of collaboration Individual Student Project
Benefits

Stipend

Research experience

Who is eligible Freshman & Sophomores, lab experience in sciences is highly preferred

Project mentor

Rosalind Lai

Assistant Professor

Neurosurgery

Phone: (716) 218-2000

Email: puimanro@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

  • Reading seminal articles on cerebral aneurysm and sex differences
  • Attending lab orientation (on lab safety)
  • Meeting with lab team, lab tech, to review projects

Keywords

neurosurgery, genetics, aneurysm, neurology, neuroscience, Department of Neurosurgery