HIGH POINT, N.C., May 5, 2016 – High Point University junior Jenny Marshall won first place for her research poster presentation at a Central North Carolina section of the American Chemical Society event on April 12. Her poster, “Functionality of the Osteocalcin Disulfide Bond,” received top honors in the undergraduate group.
“This is wonderful recognition for Jenny and for undergraduate research at HPU,” says Dr. Andrew Wommack, assistant professor of chemistry. “This event provided an opportunity for our talented students to share their science with professionals from area colleges and universities as well as many local chemistry businesses.”
Marshall’s poster described the current phase of her research of a protein called osteocalcin, which is found in bones and can have a hormone-like effect. The chemistry major from Ijamsville, Maryland, is working to chemically synthesize the protein, which in certain forms has been shown to increase insulin production and the body’s sensitivity to insulin. She is also working with the exercise science department to test its biological properties. The project has exciting therapeutic potential.
This summer, Marshall will serve as a research intern in the Chemical Biology Laboratory at the National Cancer Institute.
“I am very fortunate to be able to conduct undergraduate research on such an interesting topic,” Marshall says. “The problem solving skills I have developed, as well as the ability to communicate ideas to others are invaluable. I am confident that all of the skills I have learned through this research opportunity will help me in whatever career path I decide.”