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Marissa Cooke

Research

The inherent pluripotency of embryonic stem cells affords them the ability to differentiate into all somatic cell types, making them a unique source for regenerative biologic therapeutics and tissue engineering applications. One aspect of my research focuses on solubilizing the extracellular matrix (ECM) produced by differentiating embryonic stem cells. By characterizing the molecular composition and bioactivity of solubilized ECM, I aim to reformulate the material as a hydrogel capable of injectable delivery for a variety of in vivo regenerative therapeutic applications.

In addition to the aforementioned studies, my research also involves epigenetic studies of differentiating embryonic stem cells. Understanding the functional role of histone linker proteins and their effect on dynamic changes in chromatin structure in embryonic stem cells undergoing differentiation offers us more control over stem cell fate into distinct cell types. This facet of my research will hopefully also provide useful insight to the growing field of cell reprogramming.

Biography

Marissa graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a minor in Microbiology. While at Virginia Tech, she conducted research in the lab of Dr. Alan Youthman, studying the growth patterns of B.popillae, a bacterium used in industrial microbiology applications. Upon graduation, Marissa found employment at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) in Norfolk, VA with Dr. Timothy Bos, engaging in breast cancer research. In 2004, in the lab of Dr. Howard White, Marissa’s focus was more physiological, studying the kinetics of myosin V and myosin VII. Finally, in conjunction with Dr. Sergio Oehninger from the Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Julius Nyalwidhe from EVMS, she used advanced proteomic profiling techniques to identify novel biomarkers of successful embryo implantation. After moving to Georgia with her husband in November 2008, Marissa joined the McDevitt lab and currently serves as the Laboratory Manager in addition to conducting research as a Research Technologist .