Maddie Kugler

I am studying the estrogen receptor (ER) in hopes of mapping out the residues which contribute to DNA and RNA binding. The estrogen receptor regulates genes involved in reproductive development and metabolism. It is also an important contributor to the proliferation of breast cancer cells. By identifying which residues in the protein are important for binding to the different nucleus acids, we can begin to better understand how the protein functions in normal cells versus cancer cells and how certain mutations can lead to cancer cell survival. 

Interests: Reading, baking seasonal treats, skiing, running, and watching Downton Abbey