Behind the Scenes - Tapscott Lab

Posted by Friends of FSH Research on Nov 18, 2024

by Dhruti Pachalla
The Overlake School Class of 2026

Behind the scenes at the Tapscott Lab at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, I had the unique opportunity to observe state-of-the-art research focused on Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD). Meeting Dr. Stephen Tapscott, the principal investigator, and his incredible team—including postdoctoral fellow Dr. Tessa Arends and Staff Scientist Dr. Danielle Hamm, as well as graduate students Ellen Paatela and Esteban Abeyta, and Research Technicians Sean Bennett, Aidan O'Donnell, and Faith St. Amant—was inspiring.

The day began with Dr. Arends, who gave me a brief overview of FSHD and the DUX4 gene. I shadowed both Dr. Arends and Dr. Hamm during their experiments, gaining insight into the hands-on processes driving their research. Meeting the rest of the lab members later was equally informative—they represented diverse backgrounds and career paths, showcasing the myriad ways to contribute to the field of biomedical research. Dr. Arends, who is preparing to transition into a faculty role and Dr. Hamm reflected the collaborative and forward-thinking spirit of the lab. The team’s dedication to investigating the molecular mechanisms behind FSHD was palpable, and I felt honored to witness their daily work.

I observed several experiments central to the lab's investigations. In the cell culturing process, I saw muscle cells grown in nutrient-rich media enhanced with components like bovine serum and antibiotics. A chemical called doxycycline was added to activate the DUX4 gene, a key player in FSHD, and its effects were studied at various time points. Immunofluorescence techniques illuminated cellular structures, revealing key proteins and DNA under fluorescence microscopes, while advanced tools like the BD LSRFortessa X-50 enabled flow cytometry analysis. This machine, paired with special software, offered incredible insights into cell properties, gene expression, and protein dynamics. It was fascinating to see how imaging software brought experimental data to life, emphasizing subtle changes within cells that contribute to FSHD research.

I was additionally able to meet with principal investigator Dr. Stephen Tapscott. His visionary leadership has not only shaped the direction of FSHD research but has also been pivotal in translating basic science into clinical applications. His groundbreaking work on DUX4 has laid the foundation for clinical trials, opening doors for potential therapies and breakthroughs in treating FSHD. Dr. Tapscott’s dedication to both scientific discovery and patient impact is deeply inspiring, and it was eye-opening to see firsthand how his research has catalyzed the fight against this debilitating disease.

The visit not only expanded my understanding of the research and medical field but also enlightened me of the steps that build toward progress in treating complex diseases. Seeing how the Tapscott Lab spearheads long-term advancements in FSHD research gave me a profound appreciation for the innovation driving medical science.

"It was our pleasure to have Dhruti Pachalla visit our lab at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. In addition to the research, one of our missions is to inspire and train the next generation of scientists in medical research, especially for FSHD research. Reading Dhruti’s generous description of our group and our research makes us reflect on the support from Friends that has made this work possible. Friends of FSH Research supported our initial studies on FSHD over fifteen years ago and has continuously provided the support to help our program grow and deepen. Without Friends there would not be an FSHD lab here for Dhruti to visit. Most amazing is that just as Friends was crucial for the development of our FSHD program, Friends has supported the development of similar labs across the country, especially important for new investigators starting their labs and deciding on a research focus. Friends is supporting current research and inspiring the next generation of FSHD scientists." - Stephen Tapscott, Danielle Hamm, Tessa Arends and the Tapscott Lab.