Jun Takaki ‘17

Summer 2016

Determining the role and functions of the RNF213 protein (Mysterin) in the development of Moyamoya disease

The Moyamoya disease is a rare and progressive cerebrovascular disorder caused by blockage of the arteries at the base of the brain primarily effecting children in Asian countries. Symptoms include mini-strokes, and weakness of the muscles. Third-Year Jun will be spending ten weeks in Professor Shohab Youssefian’s molecular biology lab at Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine examining the genes and various proteins associated with the Moyamoya disease. In addition to strengthening his lab skills, Jun said, “I am eager to experience lab work in Japan, which will allow me to better understand how cultural factors affect research processes. Upon returning to Oberlin, I will dialogue with my peers and mentors at Oberlin about my summer work in Japan to compare research experiences in Japan and America.” Upon his return to campus, Jun will write an article on his scientific findings on the Moyamoya disease and his experiences in a Japanese lab for Oberlin’s science magazine, The Synapse.