Priye Iworima
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
There is so much information available and I love to learn. The moment I started research work involving stem cells, my interest was sparked and I wanted to learn all I could. I was intrigued by the potential of stem cells and the implications they could have in regenerative medicine. This led to my decision to come back to school for a doctoral degree.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC is not just a beautiful place, it is filled with top-tier experts in their respective fields. UBC fosters innovation and collaboration. In addition, I have been fortunate enough to connect with and find mentors that help enhance my leadership and scientific research skills. These are just some of the reasons I wanted to become a part of this great institution.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The new School of Biomedical Engineering is a strong program that aims to promote innovation and train future leaders. The visions of SBME aligns with current and future goals
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I love the diversity of Vancouver, from the food to the people and various cultures. There is so much to learn, see, do and eat!
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
As a former varsity athlete, I developed a strong sense of dedication, communication, and a great work ethic. I love networking and getting to know what everyone around me is involved in. I think has helped me thrive in a scientific setting as collaboration is very important.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Give yourself definite goals. Don't afraid to try things. Most importantly, don't be afraid to fail. Just remember to get back up after any and every failure.
Learn more about Priye's research
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronically elevated blood sugar levels due to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells. While insulin replacement by daily injection can sustain life in patients, they are still at risk of developing debilitating complications associated with improper insulin dose administration. The efficacy of cell replacement therapy has been demonstrated using the Edmonton Protocol, where donor islets transplanted into patients can restore normal blood sugar levels and reduce the patients’ dependence on insulin injections. However, the scarcity of cadaveric donor islets for transplantation limits the widespread implementation of this approach. Using stem cells as an alternative beta cell replacement therapy has considerable potential to cure diabetes. Stem cells can renew themselves by dividing into more stem cells. They can also become any cell type found in the body. By studying beta cells in various animal models, we can now recreate some of the steps required in the formation of beta cells using stem cells as the starting material. My project involves developing a differentiation protocol to generate functional and mature beta cells. Concurrently, I will optimize various process parameters that will permit the large scale manufacturing of these stem cell derivatives without compromising the integrity of the product.