Student receives funding to research rare genetic disease

Posted February 14, 2012

By Kathryn Sloniowski

The Markin Undergraduate Student Research Program (USRP) has awarded a studentship to Eadric Cai−an award that has come as a welcome boost to his research.

Cai, who is in his third year of a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree, has been involved with a case study of a patient at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. The patient was identified as having a very rare and serious inflammatory disease −so serious that even a small cut could be cause for antibiotic treatment.

“The gene mutation identified in this patient has not been explored through literature before,” says Cai.

While similar mutations have been reported, the specific gene mutation, called STAT3, is the first of its kind to be discovered.  Cai’s research involves cloning the particular gene to discover more information about its effect on the body. It is hoped that his research could potentially lead to treatments for the patient, as well as others who may carry the same mutation in the future.

“It’s really meaningful research,” he says. “Although I’ve never met the patient it really drives me to discover something that will help them.”
Cai says the Markin USRP award has helped him with his tuition. The project has become his part-time job and has the added perk of giving him hands-on experience.

“I’ve been listening to all these cool things in class and with this research I have the opportunity to do them,” he says.
Dr. Chris Waterhouse, Cai’s faculty mentor, says he has been consistently impressed with his dedication and enthusiasm for his work.

“Eadric clearly understands that his work involves a disease that is difficult to treat, and I know that much of his dedication stems from his interest in helping the family that ultimately led to the design of his project,” says Waterhouse.

Waterhouse says the Markin USRP funding has given Cai the unique opportunity to conduct longitudal research throughout his undergraduate career.

“It has helped Cai to foster what I believe will be a lifelong interest in health research,” he says.