Each month we speak to a member of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology and find out more about them to showcase the diverse and talented community that makes up LMP! Part of our pillar of Inclusive Community in the LMP Strategic Plan 2023-2028.
This month, we feature PhD Candidate, Aisha Adil, studying in the labs of Dr. Michelle Bendeck and Dr. Paul Santerre. Aisha received the The Norman Bethune Award at our recent Annual Celebration of Excellence - an award that goes to a top microbiology postgraduate trainee and a graduate student in LMP.
What are you studying at LMP and why?
I am studying vascular cell biology and bioengineering under the co-supervision of Dr. Michelle Bendeck and Dr. Paul Santerre. After working in different labs and projects throughout my undergraduate and Master’s, I knew I wanted to have both fundamental basic science and bioengineering components for a PhD. I was also interested in delving into vascular biology specifically following a spontaneous finding towards the end of my MSc. I was fortunate to start my PhD with Drs. Bendeck and Santerre who offer the best of both worlds.
Tell us about your research
My doctoral research focuses on nanoparticle drug delivery for pediatric and adult vascular occlusive diseases. Children born with supravalvular aortic stenosis, a rare congenital heart disease, have narrowing of major blood vessels due to smooth muscle cell hyperproliferation and hypermigration. This can result in restricted blood flow, heart failure and/or sudden cardiac death if left untreated. Surgical correction or catheter-based interventions are current standard of care. However, due to recurrent vascular re-narrowing (restenosis), repeated interventions are required which can be burdensome and invasive for small children. In adults, vascular smooth muscle cells are also major, fundamental contributors to vascular occlusive diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Drug-eluting stents and drug-coated balloon angioplasties are current standard of care however, multiple challenges exist including high rates of restenosis post-intervention, drug cytotoxicity, and need for long-term anti-platelet therapy. My research delves into deciphering both the basic cell biology of smooth muscle cell mechanisms and functions, and the development of nanoparticle-based drug delivery to target and treat these conditions.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
I started exploring entrepreneurship and commercialization in the life sciences through different programs and gave (and won!) my first elevator pitch recently in the first OBIO Entrepreneurship Training for Women in STEM program.
I also started leading the mentorship program for the Life Sciences Career Development Syndicate, the largest career development society in the faculty of medicine, where I connect graduate students/postdocs with industry professionals from various life science sectors. We expanded the program to a record-breaking number, and the most interesting and fun aspect has been being exposed to new challenges, new friends, new perspectives, industry experts, and career pathways I did not know of.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
I was repeatedly advised to always keep an open mind and to try different things – you will never know unless you try!
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
I have come to appreciate that how you frame your mentality changes everything especially when facing and overcoming challenges and adversities. This has helped me shape my work ethic and how I commit myself to anything.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
My parents - it is a privilege and honor to have old parents. There were many differences I felt in childhood experiences, upbringing, and priorities when compared to my peers at any stage of schooling. But these differences have become my biggest advantages anywhere I go and apply myself as they have shaped and developed my mentality and personality in many ways. It also puts their sacrifices, burdens, and how they supported my siblings and I in many new perspectives, especially as we grow older and experience more life.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I don’t watch TV, movies or listen to music.
I also don’t like cake.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Very Zen mode activities – I’m a chai enthusiast, you can get me to walk anywhere, and I like cooking.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
See above!
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
I would love to meet and sit with my grandparents! Most had already passed away before I was born or when I was really young. Old parents can bring fun and wisdom together really well.
I would also love to meet Carol Greider. When I began graduate school, I came across her biography from the Nobel Laureates feature. Along with explaining her career trajectory and way to her winning discovery, her words on what it means to be a scientist and a mother, and how she views productivity alongside family commitments was very validating and reassuring for what I envision for myself as a future scientist.
Where is your favourite place?
Anywhere where I can walk and explore nature.
If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?
A notebook to keep my mind active, and a large cart of skincare to experiment with.
