Sounding the alarm: studying the role of signal cascades in the immune response (EDU1P.250)

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this research opportunity was to investigate the methods and roles of cell signaling via protein cascades and their connections to the functionality of the immune system. During my summer internship, I worked with investigators at the United States Army Medical Research Institute for Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) to develop and test the activity of man-made protease cascades that could someday mirror the complement system in its aggressive response to specific signal molecules. My research experience inspired me to develop a unit for a second year Biology/AP Biology course. Students will examine the effects of several factors, including protease concentration, substrate concentration, and a non-cascade reaction, on reaction rates through construction of both physical models and simulated protease cascades. In this unit, students first work with a hands-on physical manipulative model to familiarize them with how a protein cascade works. Then, all of the students will work in tandem on a kinesthetic activity modeling exactly how protein cascades behave. This activity allows for a cost-effective method of demonstrating protease cascades without expensive lab equipment and reagents. Students translate their knowledge into the application stage when they examine how protease cascades work in the human body and discuss various uses and effects of cascades, such as protein kinases, on the immune system.