Molecular Biology Class Visits Brandies University

In Professor Rodal’s lab, students learned about fluorescent proteins that are linked to proteins produced in neurons using genetically engineered DNA sequences introduced into fruit fly larvae. Because these genes are expressed only in neurons, researchers can visually track where and when specific proteins are made by capturing images and video of glowing fluorescent signals. Students observed live larvae wriggling under the microscope with visibly bright green brains. They also dissected larvae to examine the movement of fluorescently tagged neuronal proteins and viewed video microscopy showing these dynamic processes in action.

In Professor Goode’s lab, students explored the many cellular structures built from actin, including the cytoskeleton that determines cell shape and the specialized hair cells in our ears that detect sound. They learned how researchers investigate the proteins responsible for assembling and reorganizing these actin structures, and they were introduced to several advanced imaging and visualization techniques used to study them. Undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers generously shared their expertise and guided CSW students through the lab’s processes. There was even a very cute lab dog who made a special appearance!

After the lab visits, students enjoyed lunch with Brandeis undergraduates and had the chance to talk in small groups about everything from campus life to pathways for becoming involved in research as an undergraduate.

Thank you to Dr. Goode, Dr. Rodal, and their respective teams at Brandeis University for welcoming our students. We hope to visit again soon!