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Synthesis and Characterization of Near-Infrared Fluorescent Dye Cy7-2 for Targeted Cancer Imaging
Full text linkThe growing demand for real-time, precise, cancer diagnostics and treatment has driven the development of targeted near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent biosensors. Traditional visible-range fluorophores, such as Boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPY) dyes are well-known for their high quantum yields, photostability, biocompatibility, and sharp absorption and emission peaks, making them widely used in fluorescence imaging (Nisar and Sui). However, Cyanine dyes offer some advantages over visible-range dyes, such as deeper tissue penetration due to their near-infrared (NIR) absorption and emission, significantly reduced background autofluorescence, and improved signal-to- noise ratios in vivo (Zhang et al.). This project explores the synthesis and characterization of the NIR fluorescent biosensor Cyanine-7-2, which is designed to improve imaging in deep biological tissues. The research focus is on developing near-IR dyes that can be conjugated to cancer- targeting biomolecules for enhanced specificity and targeted drug delivery in cancer cell imaging. This work contributes to the development of more effective imaging tools for early cancer detection, diagnosis, and real-time monitoring, potentially enhancing clinical outcomes through earlier intervention and reduced invasiveness
Well, That’s Interesting: “Minnesota Nice” and its Impact on Rural Community-Building
Full text linkI have been living in Morris for two years now, and have been able to find and develop a strong community of like minded people for myself. However, evidence from international students and immigrants suggests that my experience is not universal. The term “Minnesota Nice” is a concept that helps us unpack these differences in experience. Characterized by outward politeness and a cheerful attitude masking emotional reservedness and an aversion to conflict, Midwest Nice can help people get along but can also create a sense of exclusivity. Drawing from literature, historical and archival research, popular culture, digital media, and cultural analysis this project seeks to understand the nuances of Minnesota Nice to help rural community leaders in West Central Minnesota make more inclusive and welcoming communities. In my research I found that the best way to combat insularity is building more capacious relationships beyond the transactional or context-specific
2025 Undergraduate Research Symposium Schedule and Abstracts
Full text linkSchedule and abstracts from the Undergraduate Research Symposium at the University of Minnesota Morris on April 16, 2025
Investigating the Effects of Palmitoylation in OVCAR3 Cells
Full text linkOvarian cancer is a disease characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the ovaries often due to mutations in our DNA. Because ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed at advanced stages, the survival rate is less than 40% over a five-year period. One significant influence of this cancer is palmitoylation - a post- translational modification in which fatty acid chains are added to specific cysteine residues in proteins. This modification alters protein localization, stability, and function. When dysregulated, as seen in ovarian cancer, palmitoylation can promote irregular cell growth, mutations, and ultimately cancer. However, the role of palmitoylation in cancer remains poorly characterized. To better understand this mechanism and its effect on ovarian cancer cells (OVCAR-3), colony formation, and MTT assays (cell
viability assays) were used to study how cancer cells survive and grow after treatment with 2-bromo- palmitic acid (2BP), a drug that inhibits palmitoylation. For the MTT assay, OVCAR-3 cells were plated
and treated with increasing concentrations of 2BP for 48 hours. We found that treatment with 2BP decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, for the colony formation assay, cells were plated and treated every three days for two weeks, followed by staining the colonies for visualization. We found that the number of colonies decreased as the drug concentration increased. Together, these results suggest that inhibiting palmitoylation leads to an increased rate of cancer cell death, indicating that palmitoylation may promote cancer cell proliferation and metastasis. This research may be useful as a possible therapeutic course of action for cancer patients.https://digitalcommons.morris.umn.edu/urs_2025/1006/thumbnail.jp
Peyton Snow Interview, 2025
Full text linkPeyton Snow discusses her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic when she was a middle school student living in Owatonna, Minnesota.https://digitalcommons.morris.umn.edu/covid19/1000/thumbnail.jp
Building the Playground: The Direction of Children’s Theatre with Junie B. Jones
Full text linkAn insight and analysis into the process of directing an engaging and meaningful production of children’s theatre through Alison Gregory’s Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook, adapted from Barbara Park’s vibrant stories. This examination considers how a thoughtful directorial approach can elevate a play beyond entertainment, using the unique power of children’s theatre to inspire joy, curiosity, and learning, not only to entertain, but also to enrich the minds of all who experience it. Through a careful study of the directorial process, this work explores how a well executed piece of children’s theatre can create an impactful experience for audiences of all ages, fostering a shared space of growth, learning, and fun
Carol Day Interview, 2025
Full text linkCarol Day shares her history as a teacher in Morris Schools and the history of the businesses of the area. She talks about how things have changed in the last 75 years in Morris.https://digitalcommons.morris.umn.edu/main_street_business/1001/thumbnail.jp
Breaking the Cycle: Reducing Maternal Mortality Disparities in Minnesota
Full text linkA comparative analysis of Minnesota\u27s maternal mortality rates with states implementing successful maternal health initiatives and a review of policies supporting doulas, midwives, and culturally competent care models. Conclusions show that addressing maternal mortality disparities requires systemic healthcare reforms and culturally competent interventions. Expanding access to doulas, midwives, and community-based care can significantly improve maternal outcomes. Future research should focus on long-term effects of policy changes and continued surveillance of maternal health disparities.https://digitalcommons.morris.umn.edu/urs_2025/1011/thumbnail.jp