Ebru Robinson, B.S.

Bio

In my Ph.D. research, I study the genetic mechanisms behind severe muscular diseases using Drosophila as a model organism. I focus on a novel gene with a human counterpart linked to muscular dystrophies.

Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, I created mutants to examine the gene’s role in muscle function. These mutant flies are viable but show impaired flight and damaged muscle structures, highlighting the gene’s importance.

I named the gene “Uchmaz” (Turkish for “flightless”) to reflect its role. By combining bioinformatics, biochemistry, and genetics, my goal is to better understand muscle biology and provide insights into developing treatments for muscular disorders.