Searching for a gene to prevent chemotherapy relapse

Using a new, revolutionary technique in hopes of discovering a new gene has Matthew Johnson '19 excited for the future. "We are using a new, revolutionary technique called CRISPR/Cas9 in hopes of discovering a new gene," he said.  

During a research internship at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY, his research focused on Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Johnson is particularly interested in cancer cells that are resistant to chemotherapy in order to prevent cancer relapse. He is working now in Dr. Cathy Sarisky's lab. "I've gained so much experience through this research and it's helped me apply to medical school this year," Johnson said.