I conducted research in the Systems Medicine and Bioengineering Lab at Houston Methodist under the mentorship of Dr. Wenjuan Dong and Dr. Stephen Wong. My research focused on better understanding the potential connection between Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common viral infection, and the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Using advanced single-cell genetic analysis of Alzheimer’s patient samples, along with RNA sequencing data from mouse cells, I explored how CMV infection may influence the brain’s response to disease.

Our findings led us to hypothesize a potential pathway through which CMV could accelerate Alzheimer’s progression, involving the blood-brain barrier and a structural protein called vimentin. We also designed experiments to further investigate this potential connection and determine whether understanding CMV’s role could ultimately inform new approaches to Alzheimer’s treatment.

This experience at Houston Methodist was an invaluable learning opportunity. I developed skills in computational analysis, experimental design, and scientific research that will continue to serve me throughout my career.