I am a second-year Ph.D. student from Akwa Ibom in Nigeria. My interest in health research was sparked during my undergraduate studies at Federal Polytechnic Nekede, in Owerri, where my bachelor’s thesis on antimicrobial and phytochemical analysis of Bryophyllum pinnatum ignited my desire to explore research in medicinal plants.
My fascination with the exciting relationship between genetics and health has led me to the Greenberg lab. I am particularly interested in understanding why mutations in just one gene called TAFAZZIN lead to a debilitating genetic disorder known as Barth syndrome (BTHS). BTHS patients often experience cardiomyopathy, skeletal myopathy, neutropenia, and exercise intolerance. CL interacts with many other mitochondrial proteins to modulate pathways which can modify the pathology of BTHS. I am passionate about identifying the mechanisms by which these pathways contribute to the phenotypes of BTHS.
More about Justina:
Beyond academics, I find solace in leisure activities like watching movies, reading novels, and chatting with friends and family. These moments of respite rejuvenate me and make me more focused on the journey ahead.
