Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

My goal is to investigate the relationship between various hormones and their effects on brown adipose tissue. I need help on finding a laboratory that is willing to assist me in my research. I have contacted a few universities to see if they will grant me access to conduct my research in their lab. I have been corresponding with a few professors from Yale, Duke, Columbia, Dartmouth etc. The Cellular and Molecular Biology professor from Columbia granted me access to his database. As a result, I was able to find the correct cell culture methodology for adipose tissue. Any assistance or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Jackie

Hi,
Have you gotten a chance to look at the scientific literature? A good source that you could use is Google Scholar. Type in brown adipose tissue and hormones. There should be lots of papers that come up. You may find that your proposed project has already been done.

Regarding finding a laboratory that will let you conduct your research. You should perhaps speak with someone at your school (science teacher), and see if they could help you get in contact with someone.

Thanks,
Jenny

Dear Jeeny,

I know there have been studies on hormones' effects on brown adipose tissue. Would it be a a good idea to investigate the relationships between two hormones, such as T4 and melatonin and their effects on brown adipose tissue? Or I could take another route and observe various carcinogenic agents from various cleaners/disibfectants and the effects on brown adipose tissue. This particular approach has not been studied to the extent of hormones and its effects on brown adipose tissue.

Thanks,
Jackie

Hi Jackie,

You have a very interesting project on your hands. It looks like you've already answered your own question about which route to take. Take the one that will most interest you, as it will give you the best results in the long run.

Hope that helps!

-Sam

Dear Sam,
Thanks for the words of encouragement. I have thought about it, and have decided to study the effects of carcinogenic agents on brown adipose tissue.

I hope you have a wonderul holiday season.

Thanks,
Jackie