Chow, Sarah
Student Video
Research
Cyclic Nucleotide Binding to HCN Channels
My research focuses on a protein called the Pacemaker protein located in the Sinoatrial Node, the control centre of the heart. It regulates heart rate by binding to a molecule called cAMP, which is released in response to the hormone adrenaline. My project uses a special technique, called Isothermal Titration Calorimetry that measures the heat that is released when cAMP binds to the Pacemaker protein. From the heat released, I am able to determine the strength of the interaction as well as other thermodynamic properties.
Slow heart rate is a common life-threatening condition due to the heart's inability to pump enough oxygen through the body. The current treatment is implanting an artificial pacemaker, however this requires surgery and these pacemakers can only be set to maintain a specific heart rate preventing a person from pursuing any strenuous activities, such as running. My goal is to find another alternative to pacemaker implantation surgery.
After volunteering as a Kinesiologist rehabilitating patients who suffered heart attacks, I wanted to dig deeper and learn more about the human body's physiological mechanisms.
I wanted to pursue a graduate degree studying the molecular mechanisms of the heart. Since UBC is home to one of the few Pacemaker protein experts in the world, Dr. Eric Accili, I decided to study at UBC.
Watching team Canada win the Olympic gold medal hockey game against the United States.
I love running, hiking, biking, beach volleyball, rollerblading anything to keep me outside and active with friends and family. Luckily for me, Vancouver is the perfect city for these activities because I can do them all year round. Lying on the beach with a good book is also fantastic.
I plan to be in a job where I have the opportunity to educate the public about current research and the impact it will have on their lives. I hope to play a more active role in science and advocate for the importance of scientific research.
