한빛사 인터뷰
1. Can you please briefly summarize this paper?
Summary of the paper: Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is one of the most prevalent demyelinating peripheral neuropathies worldwide, affecting nearly 3 million people. The most common subtype of CMT disease is CMT1A, caused by the duplication of the PMP22 gene in Schwann cells (SCs). Unfortunately, previous biochemical approaches have not resulted in an approved treatment for CMT1A disease, compelling the pursuit for a biophysical approach such as electroceuticals. However, the effects of electroceuticals on CMT1A in vitro had remained unexplored. In this study, we demonstrated that electrical stimulation (ES) can ameliorate CMT1A-associated biomolecular abnormalities using PMP22-overexpressed Schwannoma cells, an in vitro CMT1A model. We carried out screening for the optimal ES frequency using a custom-made HTS platform, and found that 20 Hz ES for 1 hr resulted in the optimal beneficial changes, such as: (i) amelioration of intracellular PMP22 aggregation and improved distribution in the cell membrane, (ii) upregulation in the expression of genes encoding myelin proteins, and (iii) inducing pro-myelinating regulatory pathways. This study revealed key biomolecular changes in CMT1A SCs resulting from electroceuticals, and will hopefully play a crucial role in the clinical translation of an electroceutical-based treatment for CMT1A disease.
2. Please introduce your laboratory, university or organization to bio-researchers in Korea.
I am currently an integrated MS/PhD student in the BioDr Lab in the Department of New Biology at DGIST. Our specialization includes multidisciplinary research fields such as stimulation biology (e.g., electroceuticals), centrifugal microfluidics, organ-on-a-chip, and cancer diagnostics/therapeutics. Among these topics, I am working with the application of electroceuticals towards intractable diseases, as well as trying to develop a non-invasive interface for electroceuticals. Our lab is trying to re-imagine new ways in which engineering concepts could be implemented to overcome biological problems, and transform the paradigm of conventional biological fields. I am glad to be training in a lab where the PI encourages innovation, and the students are not afraid to go beyond their comfort zone when exploring new ideas.
DGIST is a young university commitment to convergence research. The most impactful innovations of the future will inevitably be the result of convergence of multiple disciplines. DGIST has transcended the rigid educational practices of the more traditional universities, and embraced convergence as the way forward. Another key advantage of DGIST is the availability of state-of-the-art research facilities, for example the Center for Core Research Facilities (CCRF). Lastly, the labs in DGIST are led by PIs who are some of the most highly-qualified faculty members in Korea, and consistently produce publications/patents of the highest quality.
3. Can you provide some advice for younger scientists who have plans to study abroad or who have plans to study in Korea?
One important advice I would provide to students intending to pursue their education in Korea is this: do not worry about scholarships. DGIST and all other ISTs (Institute of Science and Technology, such as KAIST, GIST, UNIST) in Korea offer full scholarships to all graduate students. Starting from Fall 2023, DGIST will also offer full scholarships to international students in the undergraduate program as well.
The Korean government is wholeheartedly trying to attract talented scientists and researchers. The country has recently introduced a system to provide permanent residency and even citizenship to talented students, especially in the fields of science and technology. So, the pursuit of education in Korea will be mutually beneficial in the long run for the prospective students as well as the country.
4. Future plan?
My experience with the research and academics in Korea has inspired my aim to become a PI in a University or research center here. Since I had the opportunity of receiving education from the reputed institutes in Korea, I want to return the favor in the form of my scientific contributions. Additionally, I want to work for the better integration of foreign students in Korean workplaces. I believe the talented international students who receive education in Korea have a lot to offer to this country, so their integration into Korean enterprises can be highly beneficial.
5. Do you have anything else that you would like to tell Korean scientists and students?
Over the last decade, Korea has transformed itself into a leader of the new frontier of technology. This is possible due to the talent and perseverance of the scientists and researchers working in various institutes. Therefore, it is a wonderful time to explore even more ambitious and futuristic projects. During this pursuit, there will be practically endless opportunities to learn new skills and develop a more sophisticated way of thinking.
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