Brittney Williams

• SOAR Position: Member
• Major: Biochemistry
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. April Weissmiller

Current Focus: Biological Evaluation of Novel Tubulin Inhibitors

Project Description

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death. Chemotherapy is one of the most effective treatments against this disease and is typically used to target fast-growing cells or cells that are in various phases of the cell cycle. One such chemical used in chemotherapy treatments targets the formation of microtubules, which are important structures critical for proper cell division and aid in the process of mitosis. Because cancer cells rely on cell division, blocking tubulin incorporation into microtubules can prevent mitosis, leading to cancer cell death. This study sought to determine the preliminary effects of novel tubulin inhibitors on the melanoma cancer cell line A375.

Why does this topic interest you?

Diseased-based research has interested me from a young age. As I have watched multiple family members struggle with disease, I always knew that I wanted to help individuals struggling with their own health. However, what drew me to general cancer research was my older sister. I was fortunate in being able to watch her perform research in Dr. Weissmiller's laboratory. I was amazed by what they were attempting to discover and accomplish. This led me to begin working in Dr. Weissmiller's lab as well, which has developed a love for cancer research ever since.

What are your professional aspirations?

In the future, I hope to explore other areas of biomedical science and biochemistry by obtaining a PhD.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Follow your passions and explore your interests early on in your academic career. This is the time for you to grow and make mistakes. Doing so now is important for your own development, so do not be afraid to reach out to professors or dive into a new activity that you might enjoy!

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