Researching Multiple Sclerosis and Other Immune-Related and Neurodegenerative Diseases

This summer, I served as a clinical research intern in the Pröbstel Lab at the University Hospital, Department of Biomedicine in Basel, Switzerland. The Pröbstel Lab focuses on disentangling the relationship between the gut microbiota and B lymphocytes to develop specific therapies that can be translated back to the hospital to treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other immune-related and neurodegenerative diseases.​

Within the lab, I specifically assisted in an ongoing research project investigating the role of blood B Cell-Activating Factor (BAFF) levels in patients who are undergoing treatment for MS. Past literature suggests that BAFF levels may correspond to the efficacy of certain MS treatments. This summer I analyzed serum samples from a large cohort of MS patients using a technique called an Enzyme-Linked-Immunosorbent-Assay (ELISA). The data acquired from this diagnostic assay was used to make an accurate prognosis on the progression of MS after patient's received treatment. ​

As a neuroscience major who was overwhelmed by the plethora of subcategories that neuroscience encompasses, this unpaid internship allowed me to explore a branch of neuroscience I never had the opportunity to delve into. My previous experiences in research have always involved more aspects of psychopathology rather than neurology. However, after spending the summer in a lab that focuses on immune-related and neurodegenerative diseases, I have found myself eager to explore this side of neuroscience. I am beyond grateful to have received the CXD Funded Internship Grant.​

Internship funded by the Gormley Internship Fund.