Undergraduate Research & Scholarships

Derik Liu

Understanding the Role and Function of F26BP in Controlling Glycolysis

Produced during cellular metabolism, the compound fructose-2,6-bisphosphate (F26BP) has been shown to activate glycolysis, a key pathway that breaks down the sugars we eat into energy and other usable products our bodies need. Even small amounts of F26BP can dramatically increase the rate of glycolysis under a variety of conditions, suggesting that it contributes to promoting the production of various proteins, fats, and other molecules that cells need to grow. We aim to better understand the factors controlling the process that produces F26BP in order to mathematically model its functionality, and additionally evaluate the effect that F26BP has in influencing the rate of glycolysis and the formation of its end products.

Message To Sponsor

Thank you so much for sponsoring this opportunity! Participating in research has really helped me discover and develop my interests in addition to helping me explore the possibilities of a future in science, and has overall been a super fulfilling experience. I am incredibly grateful to have the chance to continue this work over the summer with your generous support.