FARMINGTON, Maine — A research project that could be on the brink of finding new treatments for several illnesses and disorders is in its second phase at the University of Maine Farmington.
The study, funded by the National Science Foundation, focuses on the behavior of fish genes similar to those found in humans.
Students from surrounding high schools have also been welcomed into the lab to make discoveries alongside student researchers and scientists.
Whitney McIntire is just a high school junior but already knows she wants to pursue a career in science and engineering.
She and other members of her biology class at Mt. Blue High School tried out a cryostat machine that can rapidly freeze and slice tissue samples,
High school students use cutting-edge lab equipment under the watchful eye of University of Maine Farmington biology professor Timothy Breton.
In 2021, Breton discovered a new gene in the cell membrane of fish that had only been found in animals and people.
Thanks to a more than half-million dollar National Science Foundation grant, Breton and his team of UMF student research assistants are using new, powerful tools to study the behavior of these hormone receptors. Research that could provide new clues and potential treatment for some diseases—including diabetes, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder.
“We are trying to figure out what that job is and the link between all these different disorders,” Breton explained.
Students and biology teachers have been reviewing the data collected since the project began last fall.
“Finding a treatment for schizophrenia would be amazing, or a cure for some of these disorders these genes are linked to, McIntire enthused.
Future UMF student Lila Latham said she wants to become a nurse and will be taking several science classes.
“It’s kind of nice to have this experience before going in the fall,” Latham said.
UMF is working with the University of Florida, which sends fish samples treated with chemicals developed by European scientists. The different colors show where the genes are in the tissue and how many cells are in it. Breakthrough research gives high school and UMF students new skills and an edge in science-related careers.
“[This is] giving these students hands-on experiences that they can take with them for their future careers and education,” Breton said with a smile.
Scientists plan to apply for more grants from the National Science Foundation as research expands, possibly utilizing live fish and lab animals. The grant also allowed UMF to hire six student research assistants to work on the project; six more are expected to be on board in the next two years.