June 27, 2025
On Monday, June 16, Columbia College proudly hosted its annual Biomedical Research Program (CCBRP) Summer Research Symposium, a culminating event showcasing the impressive work of student researchers across all three levels of the CCBRP: Undergraduate Fellows, Summer Undergraduate Fellows, and Senior Undergraduate Fellows. This symposium is a signature effort of Columbia College’s involvement in the South Carolina IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (SC INBRE), a program funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to enhance research infrastructure and mentorship opportunities at institutions across the state.
As one of 14 SC INBRE member institutions, Columbia College is committed to growing research capacity and engaging undergraduates in biomedical discovery. The symposium highlighted the breadth and impact of this year's research, spanning public health, molecular science, and neurodegenerative disease studies.
Featured Presentations Included:
“Generational Trauma and Public Health Outcomes in Columbia’s 29203 Zip Code”
By Taylor Hopkins, Patricia Sinaguinan, and Lauren Swain, under the mentorship of Drs. Adrienne Oxley, Mary Jon Barrineau, and Elaine Swain
This qualitative study linked intergenerational trauma to perceptions of public health and access disparities. Through interviews and surveys, researchers found that trauma histories may influence how residents engage with healthcare systems, especially in underserved communities.
“Clearing the Air: A Breakdown of Vaping and Its Impact on Our Lungs”
By Katie Smith and Amber Motley under the mentorship of Dr. Chakia McClendon
This project explored the cellular effects of e-cigarette vapor on lung cells, revealing vaping may induce acidic microenvironments and protein changes tied to cancer risk and cell death. Results suggest vaping can cause damage comparable to, or in some cases distinct from, traditional cigarettes.
“Analysis of Cannabinoid Binding to Alzheimer’s-Related Proteins and Receptors”
By Adhmi Ismail, Cassaundra Anderson-Rhinehart, and Genevieve Prescott under the mentorship of Dr. Vinayak Bhat
This computational research used molecular docking and simulations to examine how cannabinoids interact with proteins implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. Cannabinol (CB) and Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) emerged as strong candidates for further study due to their promising binding affinities with tau and amyloid-beta proteins.
Presentations demonstrated a high level of scientific inquiry, creativity, and commitment to public health and biomedical advancement. Faculty mentors and SC INBRE leadership were on hand to support and celebrate the students’ accomplishments.
This yearly opportunity is a reminder of how impactful Columbia College students’ research can be on the community around them—and a testament to the meaningful contributions students can make when they’re willing to put in the hard work, even over the summer. Congratulations, Koalas!