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The 2024 NISBRE (National IDeA Symposium of Biomedical Research Excellence) Conference proved to be a memorable experience for one of Ñý¼§Ö±²¥'s talented undergraduates, Asher Swan Adams who was awarded a first place prize for her research poster presentation, out of more than 500 posters. Asher is an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Beverly Piggott’s lab at UM. The conference, held virtually, showcased groundbreaking research from states historically receiving less NIH funding. Created in 1993 through a congressional mandate, this symposium aims to broaden the geographic distribution of NIH funding by supporting faculty development and enhancing institutional research infrastructure. 

The Piggott lab received a $100,000 Montana INBRE (IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence) Major Research Grant to delve into the intricacies of pH regulation in neural stem cells. Preliminary findings from the lab revealed that neural stem cells exhibit lower acidity compared to their progeny, neurons. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of pH regulation is crucial, as dysregulated pH levels can lead to developmental disorders and are often associated with cancer. This generous MT INBRE Award supports ongoing research efforts, including funding Asher Swan Adams' summer research position and enabling travel to the NISBRE conference.

At the conference, Asher Swan Adams and graduate student Bernice Lin presented their groundbreaking research on pH regulation in neural stem cell development. Their work focused on major pH regulatory proteins known as Sodium (Na+)/Proton (H+) exchangers. These proteins, conserved across species, play a pivotal role in maintaining intracellular pH levels, both in the cytoplasm and within organelles. Mutations in these proteins are linked to various neurological conditions, including Christianson syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorders, epilepsy, and neurodegeneration. By understanding the function of these proteins, the research aims to uncover their role in brain development and the consequences of their disrupted function.

To study the role of pH regulation in brain development, the research utilizes fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster). These flies provide an ideal model system due to their simpler development processes, which closely resemble those of humans. While humans possess nine Nhe proteins, fruit flies have only three, making them a more straightforward model for investigating the role of Nhe proteins in brain development.

Asher Swan Adams, a rising senior double majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Human Biology, has been an invaluable member of the lab for over a year. Hailing from Fairbanks, Alaska, Swan Adams came to the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ specifically for its strong neuroscience program. She is part of the Honors program and was awarded a SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship) last summer, where she presented her research findings. She has also showcased her work at the UMCUR (Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ Conference for Undergraduate Research). However, the NISBRE conference marked her first national conference presentation.

During the conference, Swan Adams presented her research on the role of the Nhe1 protein in brain development. In humans, Nhe1 is crucial for pH regulation in the Golgi, an organelle responsible for processing and localizing proteins within the cell. Swan Adams' research demonstrated that the loss of Nhe1 leads to smaller brain sizes, indicating its significant role in brain development. Her poster, which delved into the relevance of sodium protein channels, pH, and electrolyte regulation in neurodevelopment, highlighted how different dysregulations produce various diseases. By studying flies, researchers can manipulate the abundance of these pH regulators and determine how this effects brain formation.

Swan Adams expressed her passion for neuroscience and its broader implications: "Neuroscience is the root of how we experience the world. Examining how the brain forms from stem cells is looking at the beginning of life. I want to go into healthcare, and it is important to have an appreciation for the elements behind that. After COVID, we need more union between physicians and scientists."

Conference attendees had the opportunity to vote for their favorite posters, and the results were announced during the final lunch of the conference. Among more than 500 posters, Swan Adams' presentation stood out, earning her the prestigious 1st place in the Outstanding Poster Presentation Category. This remarkable achievement not only highlights her dedication and hard work but also underscores the quality of research conducted at the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥'s biology department.

Professor Beverly Piggott, Asher’s research mentor, remarked, "To see someone come in the lab, learn new things, take on a project, make it their own, and present to the world, that is what makes it worth it to me."

Swan Adams' success at the NISBRE conference serves as a testament to the exceptional opportunities available to Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ at the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥. The university's commitment to fostering a collaborative and engaging research environment equips Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ with the skills and experiences needed to excel in their academic and professional careers. Prospective Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ interested in pursuing a degree in biology or neuroscience will find a supportive and stimulating community at the university, where they can contribute to cutting-edge research and make meaningful discoveries.

The Ñý¼§Ö±²¥'s biology department offers a wealth of opportunities for Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ to engage in research projects that address critical scientific questions. Faculty members are dedicated to mentoring and guiding Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ through their academic journey, ensuring they receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for future success. By participating in conferences like NISBRE, Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ gain valuable experience, expand their professional networks, and showcase their research on a national stage.

Asher Swan Adams' first-place win at the NISBRE conference is a shining example of the exceptional research conducted at the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥. Her dedication, combined with the support from faculty and the MT INBRE grant, has resulted in a significant achievement that will inspire future generations of scientists. The Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ looks forward to welcoming new Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ to its vibrant community, where they can embark on their own journey of discovery and make a lasting impact in the field of biomedical research.