Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal (LURJ)

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Browsing Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal (LURJ) by Author "Belzil, Camille"

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    Alu Elements and Human Disease
    (Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal, 2007-06) Belzil, Camille
    As a family, Alu retrotransposons compose the single largest component of the human genome [2]. They are thought to have arisen from the gene coding for 7SL RNA, a component of the signal recognition particle [14, 19, 23]. The only apparent purpose of these highly repetitive sequences is to replicate and copy themselves onto new areas of the genome; this has resulted in an estimated 10% growth in human genome size since our evolutionary divergence with the chimpanzee [2]. Normally cellular proteins methylate the cytosine and guanine rich areas of these transcripts in order to prevent the retrotransposon from displacing. When cellular conditions promote demethylation, Alu regions can be transcribed and insert into new areas of the genome via an RNA intermediate [2]. Insertion into a noncoding region is typically harmless, but introduction into a coding exon can lead to disrupted gene transcription and altered protein synthesis. The original demethylation event is largely a result of environmental conditions and leads to heritable changes in DNA sequence [22]. It is estimated that Alu retrotransposition currently occurs at a rate of about 1 per every 200 births, and alone accounts for an estimated 0.1% of genetic disorders [8]. The recombination of Alu elements could potentially be one of the most important sources of genetic variation, but is also a major source of human genetic disease.
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    Alzheimer's Dementia
    (Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal, 2007-01) Belzil, Camille
    Alzheimer's dementia is a complex disorder in both its symptoms and its mechanisms. While it is not a normal part of aging, its prevalence increases exponentially with age. As the 'baby-boomer' generation begins to enter the 65+ demographic in the West, we can expect to see an unprecedented number of cases of Alzheimer's in the near future. This paper discusses the methods of diagnosing and treating individuals with Alzheimer's with respect to their rights as individuals. Methods of easing the burden of caregivers through counseling and drug therapy are also covered. The etiology of Alzheimer's is discussed from a chiefly biomedical perspective, with notable attention to the genetic factors leading to higher risk of developing Alzheimer's. Lastly, social and ethical issues including quality of care, euthanasia, and current societal values are considered.
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    Therapeutic Potential for Inhibition of HIV Activation
    (Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal, 2007-12) Belzil, Camille
    The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is as simple as it is successful. Consisting of only relatively few elementary molecules, it is exceedingly hard to detect and has proven both difficult and expensive to treat. Treatment modalities are limited by the simplicity of its life cycle and the already compromised immune systems of patients. Current antiretroviral treatments are reasonably effective, but far too expensive for widespread distribution. Similarly, education can only go so far in combating such a virulent disease that is infectious in the absence of symptoms. This scenario presents an epidemiological dilemma: The highest rates of HIV prevalence are in underdeveloped and uneducated parts of the world. The areas worst afflicted lack the finances and infrastructure to initiate effective treatment programs. This paper discusses the pathway for activation of the HIV provirus, and proposes the use of inexpensive plant extracts to slow rates of transmission and the progression from HIV infection to AIDS. It also addresses the growing problem of HIV/tuberculosis co-infection and use of combined treatments to slow infection rates of both diseases.