Nadia Shezad
Biology Major, Chemistry Minor
Pronouns: She/Her
Current Research Project: The research project I am involved in focuses on understanding how a protein called Piezo1, which senses mechanical stress, influences colon cancer. We predict that removing Piezo1 will reduce tumor growth by lowering cancer stem cell activity and signals that drive tumor progression. Our studies also examine whether Piezo1 plays a more critical role in specific intestinal cell types. Overall, this project aims to reveal new strategies for targeting colon cancer by blocking Piezo1.
How she got involved with research: A conversation with my project director during orientation week sparked my interest in research at Duke. She shared her experiences and encouraged me to explore labs I found interesting. Taking her advice, I reached out to PIs whose research interested me, which ultimately led me to the lab I’m currently in!