Semmelweis University Medical School Budapest, Hungary Morgan Karetnick ‘16

Where We Worked

The Interns

What did we do?

It all started with these little guys...

Formal Title: Strain-Dependent Renal Complement Expression in Mice Researching the impact of various components of the complement system in regards to renal fibrosis We aimed to investigate the renal complement system in mouse models of renal fibrosis and its relationship to their genetic background Started with mice and worked with everything from their larger whole cells to their DNA, RNA and protein levels

Tests Performed: qPCR Western Blot Zymography Immunohistone Chemistry Cell Work (seeding, treating, plating…) Two Main Experiments Two Main Experiments Strain-dependent renal complement expression in TGF-beta transgenic mice Strain-dependent renal complement expression in mice after unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)

Most Rewarding Aspect Experienced working in a real laboratory environment and how to collaborate with world renowned scientists Was involved with a very interesting project and learned a lot of information that I don’t know if I would have ever learned otherwise Worked under as well as became friends with my supervisor – I’m still keeping in touch with him

My Impact Completed two experiments pertaining to renal fibrosis in mouse models Actively involved in the physical laboratory experiments once I learned their procedures Worked with the other interns in an efficient manner to complete all task work before our final work presentation Had some fun along the way

Even made a side trip to Lake Balaton

Future I never strongly considered working in a lab after college until this summer. Although I still intend on attending medical school, I think that I would enjoy taking a gap year first and pursuing a job in the laboratory environment. I would like to focus on the biomedical side of the field. Although I have decided to not switch my major to molecular biology, I plan to take classes that will expand my knowledge in this area.

Overall Experience Absolutely incredible, going abroad was the best thing that could have happened to me Made a lot of friends from all around the world I strongly believe that if given the opportunity, everyone should travel abroad and experience life from a different perspective

It Became Our Home

Personal Growth Learned what it is like to “live in the real world” Became more confident in myself Figured out how to read a map Depended on myself and therefore every decision I made was important Traveled through many countries and experienced a lot of cultural growth

I really did grow…