Student Research Spotlight - Priyadarshni Patel
Priyadarshni Patel won first place in the oral presentation category—University-Wide Graduate Student Winners in Human Sciences, Social Sciences, Creative Arts, Nursing and Humanities—during the 2022 Auburn Research: Student Symposium.
Hometown: Surat, Gujarat, India
Degree and major: Doctorate in Nutrition Science
College: Human Sciences
Department: Nutrition, Dietetics and Hospitality Management
Class year: Second year of doctoral program
Faculty mentor: Geetha Thangiah
Racial Variability in Methylation of NRF1 and FTO Gene in Childhood Obesity
What are you researching?
My research is focused on how epigenetics plays a role in childhood obesity. I am examining how various environmental factors—such as diet, stress, health disparities, etc.—make changes on DNA and affect gene expression, which can increase the risk of childhood obesity.
How could the results benefit individuals, agencies or companies?
The results of the study can help in early determination of childhood obesity, which can thus reduce several obesity-related chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Epigenetic changes on various genes can be used as a biomarker for assessing the risk of childhood obesity. Drug companies can manufacture medications which can prevent such epigenetic modifications.
Tell us why you enjoy research.
Research stretches my mind to think new ideas, reasons, possibilities and, somewhere along the way, it also helps me build various traits and characteristics like independent thinking, time management and communication. It gives me the feeling of accomplishment, and I feel happy that through my research I can contribute toward a better and a healthier society. It’s exciting to be a part of an adventure that will change the face of the future.
What advice would you give to other students considering doing a research project?
It is okay to not know the answers for everything; there are professors to guide you. So always be willing to learn new things and do not be afraid to take up challenges.
Tell us about any hobbies or activities you enjoy.
I enjoy travelling, making new friends and being culturally active in various events.
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