Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the TSC1 and TSC2 genes, which encode the proteins Hamartin and Tuberin. Together, these proteins regulate cell growth, nutrient-responsive signaling, and tumor suppression. As a result, TSC is associated with abnormal cell division and tumour formation in multiple organs, including the brain, kidneys, lungs, and skin. Our lab studies Tuberin and its role in cell cycle regulation, where it binds cyclin B1 and delays mitotic onset, allowing cells more time to grow and prepare for division. Previous BioID proximity-labeling studies performed in our lab identified LAMTOR1, a lysosomal scaffold protein involved in nutrient sensing, as the only protein to co-enrich with Tuberin, Hamartin, and CDK1 under stringent criteria. My project investigates the relationship between Tuberin and LAMTOR1 through localization and interaction studies to better understand whether these proteins may contribute to a mechanism linking nutrient sensing with cell cycle regulation.
My journey in Porter Lab has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my undergraduate career, and I have grown tremendously both scientifically and personally since joining the lab. Through the Peer Mentor Network, I had the opportunity to learn about the research projects of thesis students while I was still a pre-project student, which further strengthened my interest in research and allowed me to learn from students I looked up to as role models. I also had the opportunity to shadow students in the lab, develop new technical and critical thinking skills, and gradually grow more confident in my own abilities as a researcher. Over the past year, I have been able to present my research and further develop my communication and problem-solving skills while gaining a much deeper appreciation for the complexity of scientific discovery. I am extremely grateful for the mentorship and support I have received from Dr. Porter, Dr. Fidalgo Da Silva, and the entire Porter Lab team, whose guidance and encouragement have made my undergraduate research experience incredibly meaningful. The experiences and skills I have gained in Porter Lab will continue to support me throughout my future in science and research.