Meryl Ong
Project: "The Systemic Pathology of Dyskeratosis Congenita."
Medical Student Prize Winner 2024
Ms Ong summarises:
“My study explores the role of cellular ageing (senescence) and tissue changes in dyskeratosis congenita (DC), a rare genetic disorder that disrupts telomere maintenance, affecting various organs.
Liver tissue from children with DC at St. Mary’s Hospital was analysed using techniques like immunohistochemistry and AI-based image analysis to detect markers of ageing such as p16, p21, and lipofuscin. Interestingly, while p16 was low in DC liver cells, p21 levels were higher, and lipofuscin was abundant.
In beta-thalassemia patients (our control group), p16 levels correlated with increased liver iron content. Histological examination of DC liver samples showed common changes like nuclear irregularities, blood vessel issues, and scarring. Oesophageal tissue displayed glycogen build-up and, in some cases, changes potentially linked to cancer risk.
This research advances our understanding of DC and has broader relevance for ageing-related diseases, including MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease).”
What did it feel like to win this award?
“The opportunity to immerse myself in the fields of histopathology, molecular biology, and hepatology through this project resonates strongly with my evolving interests in these disciplines, as well as my career aspirations in academic medicine.
I am immensely grateful to my project supervisor, Professor Robert Goldin, whose guidance cultivated a nurturing environment where I could freely explore ideas, ask questions, and embrace the invaluable process of learning from setbacks.
This prestigious recognition solidifies my commitment to pursue research opportunities that enrich my medical training, and contributes to ‘bench-to-bedside’ research aimed at enhancing patient care and improving clinical outcomes.”
Read more about Ms Ong’s project, focused on the liver, below.
Dr-Falk-GUTS-Awards-Summary-Meryl-Ong