Uncovering new roles for miRNAs in C. elegans

Tiny RNAs, big effects

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short sequences of RNA that help cells fine-tune which genes are used. They do not make proteins themselves. Instead, they work more like dimmer switches, helping a cell turn gene activity down at the right time and place.

We use Caenorhabditis elegans, a tiny transparent worm, to ask how miRNAs shape an animal's response to its environment and influence its healthspan. Despite its size, C. elegans shares many core biological pathways with humans and provides researchers a powerful way to connect changes in genes to changes in health and behavior.

By combining genetics, molecular biology, microscopy, and bioinformatics, the Dann Lab is working to uncover new roles for miRNAs in stress resilience and healthy aging.

Exercise, diet, and aging

We are also interested in exercise physiology, diet, and aging: how movement and nutrition shape metabolism, resilience, and health over time. These questions connect everyday experiences to fundamental biology and may guide future work at the intersection of gene regulation, physiology, and healthy aging.

Education research

I am also interested in education research that helps make science learning more effective and inclusive. This includes understanding teaching methods, developing curriculum-embedded research experiences that give students authentic opportunities to do science, and supporting career and professional development for emerging scientists.