Students of the Bachelor’s Degree in Basic Biomedical Research had an outstanding participation in the 1st Biomedical Research Fair by presenting projects that cover a wide range of topics of current relevance in the field of biomedicine, demonstrating their commitment and academic excellence.
Diego Zamora Barrera, a second-semester student, focused his research on evaluating the antiviral potential of conjugated bilirubin, a substance that could offer a new therapeutic alternative against the hepatitis E virus. Using models in vitro, Diego has made significant progress in understanding how this molecule can interfere with the life cycle of the virus, both in acute and chronic infections. This work could open new avenues for the treatment of this viral disease.
“It feels great to finish this year-long project and be able to show the results. These types of events are a great opportunity to grow the field of research in Mexico and be able to show it to other people.”he pointed.
Ana Paula Escobar Elías, a sixth semester student, participated in a detailed study on the CerX protein, exploring its possible role as a regulator of XrpA in the context of Cereibacter sphaeroides. The research has identified several critical interactions that could have significant implications for understanding fundamental biological processes. This project not only contributes to basic molecular biology, but may also have future applications in biomedicine and industry.
The student thanked her research team and expressed her pride in developing this work: “It is a very interesting and challenging topic to explain, as there are many details. I took the time to explain the topic to my sister and practice what I was going to say, and thanks to that I was able to present it.”
The project of Janeth Alejandra García, a sixth-semester student, is developed jointly with the Origin of Life Laboratory of the Faculty of Sciences and the Molecular Physiology Unit of the Biomedical Research Institute, and focuses on the molecular evolutionary analysis of the SLC12 cotransporter family, which includes key proteins for the regulation of cell volume and blood pressure in mammals. Using advanced bioinformatics and structural biology techniques, Janeth has unraveled fundamental aspects of the evolutionary history of these cotransporters, providing valuable information for understanding the acquisition of new physiological functions.
“These types of events are experiences in which students must participate from our early scientific age. “I thank the Bachelor for inviting us to collaborate and allowing our research to reach many people.”he mentioned.
Eighth semester student Dennet Guerra Sandoval investigated differences in longevity and reproduction between queen- and queenless ants using a variety of experimental and observational techniques. This study provides a unique perspective on ant biology and may have important implications for understanding the evolutionary biology and social behavior of insects. The aim of the project is to find epigenetic mechanisms involved in reproductive processes.
He expressed feeling very happy to participate in the Fair and indicated that to participate “I took a science communication class where they helped me make the poster and find the most effective way to communicate my work. In the end, I feel that everything turned out very well.”
Rafael Cuitláhuac Vázquez Castro, a sixth semester student, developed a mathematical model composed of a system of differential equations to describe how the bacteria Helicobacter pylori can invade the gastric epithelium and cause various clinical conditions. This mathematical approach provides a powerful tool for predicting infection dynamics and disease progression, which is critical for the development of more effective treatment strategies.
Photographs: Brisceida López
“I had participated in this type of events before, the experience is very pleasant. Generally we are used to saturating posters with information and visually it is not very attractive for people. Thanks to the feedback I had from different people, I managed to make material that was easier to understand for all types of audiences. I am very proud”he explained.
The participation of these students in the 1st Biomedical Research Fair, held at the Biomedical Research Institute on June 21, highlights their dedication and research capacity, and testifies to the talent and innovation that characterize our student community.
Diego Garcia
