Brooke Winans

Organized and dependable student successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.

I conducted a comprehensive study investigating the inhibitory effects of sesamol and cuminaldehyde on tyrosinase activity in zebrafish embryos, comparing them to the synthetic inhibitor phenylthiourea (PTU). My experience in this research project has equipped me with valuable skills for a research lab environment.

Working with zebrafish as a test subject allowed me to leverage their transparent embryos, facilitating the observation of internal organs and physiological parameters. The study required meticulous processing of sesame seeds and cumin powder to extract sesamol and cuminaldehyde. I successfully employed instruments such as a kitchen blender, sonication equipment, and a Buchner funnel for the extraction process.

The experimental design involved exposing zebrafish to different concentrations of sesamol and cuminaldehyde, with assessments conducted on parameters like melanin levels, melanophore count, heart rate, and potential toxicity indicators. The use of additional staining techniques, such as Alcian blue dye for tail damage and Sigma-Oil Red O dye for fat accumulation, enhanced the precision of our assessments.

My involvement in this study showcases my proficiency in laboratory techniques, experimental design, and attention to detail. The experience gained has prepared me for future research endeavors, providing a strong foundation for working in a research lab setting.