Lien Nguyen

Is Thinking Bad for Your DNA and How Do We Find Out?

If “I think, therefore I am”, then we owe our very existence to the billions of neurons whose tireless work forms the basis for thoughts, emotions and memories. Yet, these essential cells are also particularly susceptible to damages, thus resulting in neurodegenerative conditions. My summer research touches on the causes and consequences of DNA double-stranded breaks in neurons, with special focus on a protein complex that may participate in repairing these breaks. Also in the presentation are some observations on the working of science that makes possible discoveries, inquiries and amazements.