Biology students dive deep into research

Beckley, W.Va. (WVDN) – Several biology students at WVU Tech embarked on an exciting journey of discovery in the field of biological sciences during the spring 2024 semester. Under the guidance of faculty members Dr. Jay Raymond, Dr. Aida Jimenez and Dr. Naresh Ramesh, students engaged in several research activities in a variety of topics, from studying the intricate ecosystems of local habitats to delving into cutting-edge research in endocrine biology. Students had several opportunities to showcase their work locally and regionally.

This month, one senior biology student, Hannah Shufflebarger, won “Best oral presentation” at the 98th Annual Meeting of the West Virginia Academy of Science.

“It is notable that she won this award in a session filled with research presentations from master’s and Ph.D. students from other notable universities in West Virginia,” said Dr. Naresh Ramesh, Assistant Professor of Biology at WVU Tech. “It is a testament to our grounded research and passionate undergraduate research training.”

Shufflebarger’s research focused on a naturally produced intestinal hormone called Nesfatin-1, known to stimulate insulin secretion and reducing appetite, which is crucial for mitigating obesity.

“Nesfatin-1 increases the secretion of a hormone called GLP-1 in the intestine of mice which regulates feeding behavior and drives up insulin secretion. This has implications as a drug for treating diabetes and obesity, both of which are major problems in West Virginia. Some of the newer  diabetes treatments are synthetic GLP-1 injections, where Nesfatin-1 drives up the release of the natural GLP-1 produced in the gut,” Shufflebarger explained.

“The fact that a natural protein secreted in our intestine (Nesfatin-1) can enhance GLP-1 secretion is important and a crucial start point to potentially mitigate diabetes and obesity using what we have and already produce healthily, without a need for injecting synthetic compounds,” says Dr. Ramesh.

Shufflebarger will be continuing her education at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia, after graduation to become a doctor.

All of the research students participated in contributes to expanding scientific knowledge and give them invaluable hands-on experience. The biology department is proud to support and nurture the next generation of scientists and looks forward to the many more discoveries and contributions that these and other biology students will continue to make at WVU Tech.

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