Examining the Effect of Vitamin D on Melanoma

 By Mary Goodrow

 

Introduction 

Over the summer and during the spring semester, I was introduced to research and working with live animals. I also learned to keep a lab notebook and record lab activities during this introductory process. The first thing I did was separate fertilized fish eggs from unfertilized ones. First, it was hard to distinguish fertilized eggs from unfertilized ones. However, it was cool to see under the microscope. Later, after the semester had ended, I started learning how to make agarose plates. Agarose plates are needed in the process of producing Zebrafish with melanoma, which is done via recombinant DNA technology. It was a fun learning process being introduced to the lab equipment and procedures for using it. One of the graduate students was nice enough to offer some help along the way. I made some mistakes, especially since I am not used to the sterile technique. I made the mistake of placing the lids of the plates on the counter. It’s now ingrained in me to open the top of the lid only slightly when working with Petri dishes.  

Methods 

In my lab notebook, I kept track of all the instructions given to me by Dr. Ferreira, mainly the ones directly related to the Agarose plates. Each page was formatted based on the date and name of the procedure we performed that day. I initially listed the procedure for my main experiment, following space set aside for a table of contents.  

Results 

Despite the premature discontinuation of the experiment, I am proud to share that my agar plates were a success. Though new to me, the process of changing the tanks and feeding the Zebrafish was also carried out successfully. This first-time experience, without any prior knowledge, was a testament to the effectiveness of our approach, even in the face of unexpected circumstances. 

Discussion/Turn of Events 

In a significant turn of events, I have made the difficult decision to continue my academic journey at Vanderbilt University as a Biomedical Engineering student. This decision was not easily made, and it brings with it the uncertainty of being able to complete my experiment before my departure. However, I am certain that the lessons I have learned will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors.