AUS biology alumna and neuroscientist researches novel solutions to neurodegeneration

It was an academic course in neurosciences at American University of Sharjah (AUS) that changed the course of alumna Erika A. Aguzzi’s life. Today, she is working on a genome manipulation technology to modify genes affecting neurodegeneration of the eye’s retina.

Having graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Psychology from AUS in 2016, Aguzzi exhibited unwavering commitment to building a career in neurosciences. Her academic journey progressed with a Master of Science in Integrative Neuroscience from the University of Edinburgh, a PhD from the University College London (UCL) followed by postdoctoral fellowships at Johns Hopkins University and UCL.

“AUS played a major role in my decision to pursue a career in neurosciences. I remember that I was scheduled to take a cardiovascular course as part of my undergraduate studies during Fall 2014. However, due to some unforeseen circumstances with the visiting professor, I ended up taking a neurosciences course with Dr. Reem Khalil, Associate Professor in Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences. I can say for a fact that Dr. Khalil and her course helped shape my life today. Less than a month into the course, I found myself captivated by the subject. Dr. Khalil's enthusiasm and her assignments helped me delve into the subject. At the time, I was already thinking of applying to postdoctoral programs, and by 2016, I knew I wanted to study neuroscience.” she said.

During her studies, Aguzzi researched models of neurodegenerative disorders and worked on developing therapies for neuroprotective and neuroregeneration. She investigated stem cell transplantation techniques as a plausible method to achieve neuroprotective therapy for retinal degeneration.

“My main interest has always evolved around the effect the immune system and genetics have on the degeneration of neurons, and what we, as scientists, can do to help the nervous system achieve neuronal regeneration. Today, I am working on a prime editing CRISPR technique, which is a new and exciting gene therapy that involves editing the genes by precisely cutting DNA. I am using this technique to modify genes that could influence neurodegeneration in the retina,” Aguzzi explained.

She aspires to expand her scientific skills over the coming years and to work further in the lab to expand her studies of the numerous aspects of neuronal regeneration.

Once a board member of the AUS Biology Student Club and an AUS Model United Nations delegate, Aguzzi reflected fondly on her AUS experience, speaking of the support she received from her professors and the Dean of College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), both in her projects and throughout her academic experience.

“I remember distinctly how I had the opportunity to do two summer semesters in the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) but I also had to finish a course as part of my requirements in AUS. My professors and the Dean of CAS recognized this opportunity and allowed me to take the course abroad. This flexibility and openness helped me so much, and even allowed me to graduate earlier, which influenced my academic and career life in a positive way. I continue to look back at this event. For them to have seen the bigger picture and what this opportunity meant for me has had a great positive effect,” she said.

Aguzzi’s achievements include co-authoring a book chapter on stem cells in ophthalmology, presenting her research work on Retinal Ganglion Cells in the retina at Johns Hopkins University during a major ophthalmology conference in 2022, and developing a model of multiple sclerosis as part of her doctoral studies to advance the medical community’s understanding of the effects of acute neuroinflammation on long-term nervous system survival and how to minimize them.

“It is true that grades are important, but they are not everything. Hard work, life experience, dedication and drive will get you where you really want to be,” she said. 

The Bachelor of Science in Biology at AUS offers students training in a variety of disciplines including genetics and molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, anatomy, physiology, neuroscience, immunology, pharmacology, disease prevention, marine biology, biological conservation and management, ecology and others. An exciting and rapidly evolving field with a highly diverse nature that ranges from human biology to biodiversity, genetics and behavior; biology is a gateway to gaining an in-depth understanding of life on earth.

To learn more about the AUS Bachelor of Science in Biology, visit www.aus.edu/cas-bce.