2
Genesoc Members become part of Phi Sigma and Phi Kappa Honor Societies
Ivan Tolentino Ivan (Batch Aptamers) is a BS Biology student major in Zoology. Ivan was first a member of the Finance Committee when he became a part of GeneSoc. He then became the Publicity Committee Head for AY 2017-2018. He was also a part of the team which became the Champion of Cellpukan 2016 Biology Quiz Contest. Ivan is continuing his studies as a medical student in St. Luke’s College of Medicine.
Left to right: Rozel Razal (Aptamers), Joana Cruz (Cyclosome), Cyrelle Brosoto (Cyclosome), and Ivan Tolentino (Aptamers) at the UPFI Film Center, UP Diliman last May 12, 2018 for the induction of new members of the Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society. By Alexis Gin B. Malagotnot (Cybrid)
Four GeneSoc members were inducted as new members of the Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society last May 12, 2018 at the UPFI Film Center, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City. Among the names who made it to the roster are Rozel Razal, Joana Cruz, Ivan Matthew Tolentino and Cyrelle Brosoto who all graduated in the University of the Philippines Los Banos this year. New Members of Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society
Rozel Razal Rozel (Batch Aptamers) is a BS Biology-Major in Cell and Molecular Biology student. During the AY 2017-2018, she was elected as the President/Executive Committee Head of GeneSoc. Moreover, she was awarded as one of IBS Outstanding Freshmen and was also a Top CAS student during her Sophomore and Junior years. Aside from Phi Sigma, she was also inducted last 2017 as a member of Phi Kappa. Rozel is continuing her studies as a medical student in the University of the Philippines Manila-College of Medicine. She graduated as Magna Cum Laude. Joana Cruz Joana (Batch Cyclosome) is also a BS Biology-Major in Cellular and Molecular Biology student. She was a member of the Education Committee all throughout her membership in GeneSoc for two and a half years. Joana was then elected as the Education Committee Head during the AY 2017-2018. Planning to continue her studies in medical school, she was accepted in University of the Philippines Manila College of Medicine. Joana graduated as Magna Cum Laude.
Cyrelle Brosoto Cyrelle (Batch Cyclosome) is a BS Biology-Major in Genetics student. She was a member of the Documentation Committee of GeneSoc ever since she became a part of it. For the Second Semester of AY 2017-2018, she was appointed as the Officer-in-Charge in the Documentation Committee. Aside from being a member of GeneSoc, she was the President of the UP STRATOS for AY 2017-2018. Cyrelle is a consistent College Scholar since her Sophomore year and was a University Scholar during the Second Semester of AY 2017-2018. She is studying medicine in St. Luke’s College of Medicine. Aside from Phi Sigma, Cyrelle was also inducted in The International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the NCAS Auditorium, University of the Philippines Los Banos, Laguna last June 13, 2018. Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society Established on the 17th of March 1915 in Ohio State University, Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society is an honor society for students in the field of biological science who have demonstrated excellence in their respective universities. With chapters all over the globe, Alpha Chi Chapter is located in University of the Philippines Manila, and was founded in 1949. The symbol of this honor society which are in the Greek letters Φ (Phi) and Σ (Sigma) corresponds to ‘fellows in science.’ While promoting academic excellence, this honor society is also committed in encouraging and contributing research in the field of biological science. The International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi It was initially named as Lambda Sigma Etu Society, but then changed their name with the Greek letters Φ (Phi) and K (Kappa). Founded in 1897 in University of Maine, it is an honor society for students who have showed excellence in any academic disciplines, not restricted to only one field of study. This honor society has 300 college-based chapters, including the chapter in the University of the Philippines, which was established in 1933. One of the goals of The International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is to ‘promote unity and democracy of education,’ and their motto is to ‘let the love of learning rule humanity.’
3
Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio Becomes New Academician of NAST-PHL
2. “Breeding for Biofortified Crops”, a project supported by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation 3. “Stress-tolerant Rice for Poor Farmers” in Africa and Asia (also a project supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) Prior to being named new ‘Academician’, Dr. Gregorio was also once awarded “Outstanding Young Scientist (OYS) in the field of Genetics” in 2004 and given the “Outstanding Scientific Publication” award in 2007 also by NAST-PHL.
By Sean Lemuel S. Santos (Hybrizyme)
LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA-Dr. Gregorio is finally reaping the fruits of his labor as he gets bestowed by the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST-PHL) the rank and title of ‘Academician’ during the awarding ceremony on July 12, 2018 at the Manila Hotel, Manila, Philippines. The NAST-PHL gave recognition to Dr. Gregorio for his significant contributions in the field of Genetics and Plant Breeding, particularly his research on salt-tolerance in rice and his studies on the genetics and breeding of high iron and zinc in rice. The prestigious academic body also cited Dr. Gregorio’s technological innovations for the award. Dr. Gregorio was the one who developed rapid screening techniques which were significant in searching for genes that could improve salt-tolerance and eventually, in the breeding of a stress-tolerant rice variety. He and his colleagues also developed salt-tolerant breeding materials now distributed in the country. The projects of Dr. Gregorio recognized by NAST-PHL were the following: 1. “Accelerating the Development and Adoption of Next-Generation (Next-Gen) Rice Varieties for the Major Rice Ecosystems of the Philippines”, a project supported by the Department of Agriculture
Dr. Gregorio is currently the acting global coordinator of International Network for Genetic Evaluation of Rice (INGER). He once worked at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) as a senior scientist and plant breeder delving on the abiotic stress-tolerance in rice. He was also the former Crop Breeding Manager in East-West Seed Group. Dr. Gregorio earned his Bachelor’s Degree (Major in Agriculture, Minor in Agronomy) at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB) in 1986 as a Dean’s Lister. In 1991, he obtained his Master’s Degree (Major in Plant Breeding, Minor in Soil Science) also at the same university as an IRRI scholar. Then, in 1997, he graduated with a Doctorate Degree (Major in Genetics, Minor in Statistics) also in UPLB as a DOST scholar. About NAST-PHL The National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines is an academic body mandated to function as an advisory body of the President of the Republic of the Philippines and the Cabinet on matters dealing with science and technology policies. Membership is based on peer recognition and is given the title “Academician”. Academicians are those who have contributed largely to science and technology and have made significant innovations in the country.
4
GeneSoc takes part in University and IBS Freshman Activities by the participating student organizations. GeneSoc took part in the said activity by giving emergency number card, and by offering chocolate drinks and hot pandesal.
IBS Freshman Orientation
By Lady Rose Ricel Montano (Helitron)
For the upperclassmen, August marks the start of another semester of college drama involving bags of academic workloads and surprise quizzes. For the freshmen, it is the beginning of unexpected friendships and knowledge unheard of. On August 6, the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) opened its arms to a new batch of freshman students by preparing various activities for them with the help of different student organizations. Among these organizations, The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc) participated in the warm welcome of the new Iskolars ng Bayan.
AlmOSAlan 2018
IBS Acquaintance Party
Later in the afternoon, the Institute of Biological Sciences (IBS) held the Freshman Orientation at IBSLH Main which teemed with new BS Biology students. Dr. Merlyn Mendioro, the IBS Director, gave the welcome address. This was followed by the presentation of IBS and College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) videos. Then, the CAS Policies was explained by the College Secretary, Prof. Ivan Marcelo Duka, while the BS Biology Curriculum was explained Prof. Joseph San Pascual. Finally, Dr. Lucille Villegas, the IBS Deputy Director, gave the closing remarks.
IBS Freshman Tour
As early as 6 o’clock in the morning last August 7, 2018 (Tuesday), the Copeland Gymnasium was already bustling with activity for the annual AlmOSAlan. From hotdogs on sticks to rice on paper plates, a variety of foods was prepared for the freshman students by the participating student organizations.
(B2, F1, U1, U2, W1, and WX1) of freshmen for the IBS Freshman Tour. Of the six blocs, U1 was entrusted under the care of GeneSoc volunteer members. The tour is comprised of nine stations situated at places where most of the freshmen’s classes will be held. These include the CAS Bldg., PhySci Bldg., CAS Annex 2, NCAS, and Wings A, B, C, and D of IBS. Each station has its own game which tested the creativity and knowledge of the freshmen students.
After the orientation, the volunteers from various IBS organizations were tasked with one of the six blocs
On August 15, IBS held an acquaintance party for BS Biology freshies at CAS Annex 2 MPH 1. Numerous IBS orgs worked together and volunteered for the program. GeneSoc was one of the orgs who catered food to the freshmen. The event was kicked-off by Prof. Jickerson P. Lado and Prof. Ronilo Flores who both hosted the acquaintance. Prof. Faith Maranan welcomed the freshmen with her opening remarks. Then, the introduction of professors of IBS was held wherein each professor shared what they teach and what they do outside the classroom. Next, IBS orgs were introduced by their respective members wherein a cheer is made afterwards. GeneSoc chanted the ‘Puso at Talino’ cheer during this activity. Games were also held to stimulate the interaction between freshmen. Prof. Evangeline Pascual gave the closing remarks.
5
GeneSoc participates in the National Social Media Day for Folic Acid Awareness
She adds that cleft lip appears as a split on the upper lip while cleft palate appears as an opening or split on the roof of the mouth. This condition appears in 1 in 500 Filipino babies. 60% of birth defects can be prevented by supplementation of folic acid. 400 micrograms of folic acid per day is recommended for women who are in the reproductive age and should be taken weeks before pregnancy. Mothers that gave birth to a baby with a birth defect must take ten times of By Sean Timothy Gacutan (Helitron) the required dosage which is at least 4,000 micrograms. Folic acid can be found in green LOS BAĂ‘OS, LAGUNA--Last July 18, The leafy vegetables, brown rice, grains, other UPLB Genetics Society, together with the Vol- food products fortified with folic acid, and unteer Youth Leaders for Health, celebrated in vitamin capsules and supplements. the National Social Media Day for Folic Acid Awareness.
Folic acid or vitamin B9 can effectively reduce the risk of birth defects. Examples of some birth defects include spina bifida, where the fetal spinal column does not develop completely, and anencephaly, where a baby’s brain and skull does not form entirely. Dr. Carmencita Padilla, the national adviser of VYLH-Philippines, stated in an interview that in the Philippines, the most common birth defect is the cleft lip and palate.
Since taking folic acid during pregnancy might be too late to avoid the birth defects, a national awareness for the supplementation of folic acid is needed. With this, The UPLB Genetics Society with the Volunteer Youth Leaders For Health, launched a social media campaign to call for a legislation for the promotion and fortification of folic acid and to spread the knowledge on the importance of folic acid especially to women and expecting moms.
6
GeneSoc joins PalaCASan 2018, performs in Pre-Pageant Night
recited a spoken word poetry. They performed Jonel Revistual’s “Isang Magsasaka, Dalawang Panginoon”, a piece that narrates the abuses and injustices experienced by farmers. This piece evokes a message about social awareness and action.
OFFICIAL START. Genes pose for a picture during the Pre-Pageant Night of BuCASan 2018, the opening ceremony of PalaCASan 2018. By James Raphael Medrano (Replichore)
LOS BANOS, LAGUNA--Hosted by The UPLB Microbiological Society, PalaCASan 2018 formally opened last Sept. 22, 2018 at the DL Umali Hall with the theme “Project Outlast: An Arm-in-Arm Combat.” This year’s theme advocates for the conservation and the preservation of various endangered flora and fauna found in the Philippines and the rest of the world.
Mr. and Ms. PalaCASan 2018 Candidates of the nine participating organizations competed in the Pre-Pageant Night of Mr. and Ms. PalaCASan 2018. Juan Miguel Balatibat (Hybrizyme) and Regina Lapuz (Replichore) represented GeneSoc during the competition.
During the Creative wear competition, the participants’ costumes must exhibit the endangered species that their organizations represent. GeneSoc’s costume displayed the jade vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys), a plant species found in the Philippines and known for their vibrant bluegreen petals. Continued deforestation in the country is currently posing a threat on the existence of jade vine according to the International Legume Database and Information Service. Juan Miguel Balatibat’s costume is inspired by the turquoise and purple claw-shaped bloom of jade vine. His scythe is inspired by the crescent-shaped petals of this elegant, native flower. Regina Lapuz’s fashion piece is inspired by the magnificent blooms of jade vine. The jade ravines of this emerald plant influenced the design and creation of the headdress with the blooms inspired from the florets of the plant.
Org Gimmick Performance Participating organizations also competed in the Org Gimmick. Each organization showed what their members can do on stage. GeneSoc’s Batch Cybrid and Securin represented the organization in the competition. They performed a K-Pop dance battle and a skit with trending memes.
PalaCasan 2018
Every time a new attire is being donned, the cheers of everyone at the venue roared loudly. Starting with the opening production, the candidates flaunted off their respective organizations by wearing their organizations’ shirts.
The games of PalaCASan 2018 have officially started. The organizations are now competing in major games such as basketball and volleyball, and in minor games such as badminton and table tennis. WaCASan will be its official closing and awarding ceremony that will also conclude the pageant.
During the Sportswear competition, Mr. and Ms. GeneSoc wore a baseball attire. Other sports were also presented by the other candidates such as racing, dancesport, paragliding, and softball.
PalaCASan 2018 is hosted by The UPLB Microbiological Society. It is an annual sportsfest by different CAS organizations that aims to promote camaraderie and sportsmanship.
During the Talent competition, Mr. and Ms. GeneSoc
7
GeneSoc to feature how seasons affect our genes in GenWeek 2018
disorder. The genes spend half a day with the children and organize activities that will spread warmth and create a peace-loving atmosphere for the children.
IQLYMPICS. This year, the organization will hold a quiz contest open to all UPLB students. The quiz contest will test the participants’ abstract and inductive reasoning, photographic memory, verbal skills, logic, and awareness about the general events and issues happening in our society.
By Rainshield Joy Dalupirit (Cybrid)
LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA–As Genesoc’s 35th year approaches, the organization continues to educate the public about the recent findings in genetics. Genetics Week, an annual week-long activity that will be conducted this year from October 22 to October 26, promotes genetics by conducting an exhibit about the chosen theme and disseminating relevant information about the field through its activities. With the theme, “Changing Seasons: Deciphering the Periodic Patterns of Gene Expression”, The UPLB Genetics Society will feature how the seasons are actually linked to our genes. It aims to explain that there are genes that are actively expressed only in a particular season. Some of those genes can affect few cell processes, making a significant influence in our body. According to researchers, out of 22, 822 genes they tested in their study, the activity of the 5,136 genes differs from the rest depending on the season. It was observed that there are genes active only during the winter, and there are some that are only active in summer. In addition, scientists at Cambridge University observed that out of 22, 000 human genes, those who exhibited seasonal variation reached up to 25%. Many of those are involved in
immune system regulation which were found to be more active in winter.
About the Exhibit In order to catch the eye of the audience for easier dissemination of information and promotion of genetics, the organization has prepared an exhibit that has been much awaited by many. Be prepared as we take you to an adventure and witness the seasons at IBS Wing C Lobby change as you move. See how the flowers and leaves bloom in the spring, and slowly wither as the winter approaches quickly. Observe how the vines creep up the walls, and seek for the discovery of the seasonal genes. The activities of Genetics Week are as follows:
Exhibit Opening and GENEWS Launching. The exhibit will officially commence by revealing the story behind the exhibit design and its concept and launching of GENEWS, the official publication of The UPLB Genetics Society. Hope Intervention: One Gene, One Child. This annual event conducted at HOPE Intervention Center in Calamba aims to help children with autism, while promoting awareness about the said
Print-All-You-Can. Since students pay almost every day for hand-outs, papers, and assignments, the organization decided to hold an activity that will help them lessen their expenses for a day by allowing them to print their materials for free.
GENEWS TEAM A.Y. 2018-2019
Editor-in-Chief
Sean Lemuel L. Santos (Hybrizyme)
Lay-out Editor:
Alexis Gin B. Malagotnot (Cybrid)
GENEWS Staff:
Lady Rose Ricel Montano (Helitron) Sean Timothy Gacutan (Helitron) James Raphael Medrano (Replichore) Rainshield Joy Dalupirit (Cybrid) Renald James Legaspi (Polintons) Angelica Robles (Cybrid) Noelle Mercado (Hybrizyme) Jessica Agustin (Securin) Blaire de Borja (Helitron)
8
Changing Seasons: Deciphering the Periodic Patterns of Gene Expression
FOUR SEASONS | A cartoon image showing the different seasons of the year: (L-R) Winter, Autumn, Spring, Summer. By Sean Lemuel L. Santos (Hybrizyme)
Life depends on the changing seasons. The yearly cycle of heat, cold, rain, and drought orchestrates the way organisms live. Seasons determine what plants will thrive and what plants will die within a given time. They tell when the migratory birds will leave and when they will go back. They dictate how long fishes will stay active and how long they will go to a deep, long slumber. It is therefore undeniable that life dances to the rhythm of nature. Now, scientists are trying to uncover the deeper roots of this relationship between organisms and the seasons. They are now looking into our genes—sections of our DNA that determine our traits—which might be the dials that the seasons are actually turning and tuning. Below are highlights of some researches that are revealing the unspoken connections between genes and the seasons.
Immunity Genes In 2015, scientists from Cambridge University reported that around 4,000 human genes exhibit seasonal variation. Particularly, genes involved in immunity were more expressed in Europeans during the winter season. Scientists explained that this increased expression of ‘immunity genes’ acts as a defense mechanism against certain infections that are more prevalent during the cold months of Europe. They asserted that this seasonal expression of ‘immunity genes’ evolved during the time when humans first started to migrate out of Africa and into the colder European regions. There, they encountered and eventually co-evolved with infectious organisms adapted to cold climates. The researchers reported that among Gambians, however, ‘immunity genes’ were more active in rainy season, not winter. This is because, in Gambia, infectious diseases such as malaria tend to flare up during the rainy season so the immune system has to respond faster in this time of the year. Cytokine Genes and Schizotypal Traits Seasons can also influence genes involved in the emergence of schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by having delusions and hallucinations.
In a 2017 study conducted by researchers from Russia, it was discovered that the interaction between a person’s birth season and cytokine genes can affect the development of schizotypal traits in the population (Cytokine genes code for cytokines which are proteins involved in inflammatory responses). Accordingly, among winter-born individuals, those with two bad copies of the IL4 gene have higher risks of developing schizotypal traits while those that have one or two good gene copies seem to have a protection against the development of schizotypal traits. Investigators suppose that higher levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4, coded by the good copy of the IL4 gene, counteracts the onset of schizotypal traits by reducing abnormal neural activities caused by another cytokine called IL-1β.
Eotaxin Genes and Asthma The birth season of a person might also be related to the onset of asthma, a disease caused by inflammation of the lungs leading to difficulty in breathing. In 2011, a study published in Genomics and Informatics examined the variations within the eotaxin-2 and eotaxin-3 genes of 78 asthma patients and 101 healthy individuals. These genes are found to be involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. The study conducted in Korea found out that the four seasons in Korea (summer, winter, fall, spring) influence the expression of eotaxin gene variations among children. The findings revealed that children who were born during summer or spring had significant eotaxin-2 and eotaxin-3 gene variations. This suggests the possibility of predicting the chances of having asthma by looking at the birth season of an individual. Seasonal Genes and Reproduction Can the seasons also affect the reproductive cycle? European researchers who published a 2014 study on circannual clock tried to answer this question. In their study, they investigated whether genes involved in measuring period of daylight (TSHβ and Dio2) and genes involved in the control of reproduction (Rfrp and Kiss2) show seasonal variations. In their experiment, they used European hamsters and removed their biological (pineal gland) and external (length of daylight) cues for seasonal changes. They then simulated seasonal changes to induce a year-round bodily rhythm on hamsters. Results showed that the TSHβ gene is seasonally expressed and that it is most highly expressed during summer. The study explained that TSHβ stimulates Dio2 expression in the hamster brain. This results to expression of Rfrp in the brain which in turn stimulates Kiss1. This Kiss1 gene, in turn, controls the activity of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)–a hormone involved in reproduction. Thus, it can be said that seasonal changes affect the expression of a cascade of genes involved in reproduction.
House-keeping Genes It turns out that the changing seasons might actually be affecting molecular processes that happen inside our cells. In 2015, Anita Goldinger, a researcher from University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, and her colleagues studied whether changes in gene expression follow the changing seasons. In their study, they examined the genes of 606 healthy individuals and looked for genes that are exhibiting seasonal variations. They found out that there were 74 genes involved in DNA repair and binding and 94 genes involved in protein synthesis and immune processes that all show seasonal changes in expression. According to the study, the results indicate that the seasons act as environmental signals for gene expression which then affect molecular and bodily functions. The researchers thus noted that their study might explain why some diseases, such as psychiatric and cardiovascular diseases, occur more often during certain seasons of the year. Stress-Response Genes In 2014, a paper published in Cell Stress and Chaperones demonstrated that the expression HSP70 genes in Indian goats (Capra hircus) vary based on season (HSP70 genes code for heat-shock proteins that prevent misfolding of other cellular proteins). The study focused on five HSP70 genes: HSPA8, HSPA1A, HSPA6, HSPA1L, and HSPA2. The results showed that during summer, HSPA8, HSPA1A and HSPA6 genes were more expressed compared to the other two genes. Meanwhile, during winter, HSPA8 and HSPA1A genes were more active than the other three genes. This suggests, according to the paper, that both heat-stress and cold-stress activated a certain set of HSP70 genes. It was also observed that HSP70 genes were more expressed during summer in cold-adapted goats and during winter in heat-adapted goats. The researchers conclude that the expression of HSP70 genes depends on the species and breed of goat which have their own adaptations to the changing climate and temperature. The changing seasons do really change us. The researches discussed above have revealed that genes obey the commands of the seasons. Indeed, we cannot separate ourselves from nature. We are intertwined to its seasons. We are carried by its repeating music that have danced with us, residents of this living planet, for billions of years.
9
Cell History Recording Through CRISPR
Spacers or the pathogen-acquired sequences are separated by direct repeats and are closely associated with the genes required in the mechanism of the CRISPR System. These associate genes are generally called cas genes.
Artist’s representation of the CRISPR-Cas9 system.
Platt’s method made use of E.coli wherein the group infused one of the cas genes with a reverse transcription allowing DNA synthesis from an RNA transcript. These acquired DNA are stored in the CRISPR array, which is a process similar to a recording device or a computer memory storage.
More importantly, according to the group, this process could be repeated multiple times using By Renald James Legaspi (Polinton) a single CRISPR System allowing the possibility Changes in the genetic material brought about of several spacers in an array. by infections and environmental stresses, in most cases, leave molecular traces in the cell. By prac- Using the order-logic, a certain DNA sequence tice, researchers could accurately trace these could be traced upon and its order of entry changes by measuring the gene activity through compared to other sequences by counting the the transcript or mRNA equipped with the molec- direct repeats naturally flanking between spacular traces. However, due to the high instability ers. of mRNA, it tremendously decreases the efficacy for tracing cell history. Thus, a novel method us- “Researchers have been working on creating ing CRISPR-Cas System provides a more promis- forms of synthetic cellular memory for a long ing approach for this cause. time, but we are the first to develop one that can record information about the expression of Randell Platt, a researcher from the Department each gene in a cell over time.” of Biosystems Science and Engineering, and his colleagues developed a permanent molecular reAs said by Randall, this technique not only procording method by writing transcriptional events vides with a recording device of a cell’s history into DNA that is re-accessed through sequencing. but allows the creation of ordered and logical The group employed the use of CRISPR-Cas Sys- inferences, for it uses a system that is naturally tem known to offer prokaryotic adaptive immu- efficient and stable in nature. nity. Naturally, this system records the genetic information of mobile genetic elements infecting For these, the team spent two years of labor a certain organism through the process known as but is dedicated to spend more years for the endeavor of this revolutionary method. CRISPR spacer integration.
10
A Leader’s Heartfelt Dream for Outreach or companies are given and fun activities such as painting, storytelling and mini games are facilitated. General Check-up, Dental Check-up and circumcision are all part of the free services offered during medical mission held every 2nd semester. These medical missions were made possible with the help of other kind sponsors in providing medicines, and volunteer doctors and medical students who are most of them are members of Genesoc as well. Besides these regular outreach activities, the organization may hold other projects according to the call of situation. An example of this was the book-giving conducted last year for the children of Putho by the previous Outreach Committee Head, Michelia Merrill Linne D. Malabrigo. MEDICAL MISSION 2018 | A photo of Genes and GK volunteers during the closing program of Medical Mission 2018 spearheaded by the Outreach Committee of GeneSoc.
By Angelica Robles (Cybrid)
She wanted to join the organization and finally, she is now in GeneSoc. But joining it still came as a surprise to her. Much more, she was elected to spearhead the outreach committee on its 35th year. She admits that she is new in the organization and has not yet witnessed all the outreach activities. However, this did not become a reason for her to be less motivated. This is what Angelica Robles, the current Outreach Committee Head, has to say on how she sees Genesoc’s outreach committee this year. I cannot deny that I am pressured to be handling this responsibility but it is definitely more of a pleasure to be given this opportunity. I am proud and my heart is filled with joy to know that this organization is actively involved in the community through its outreach programs within and outside the university. The projects of the outreach committee inside the university are Adopt-A-Room and Adopt-A-Wing. It aims to encourage the members to put into practice and promote the importance of maintaining the facilities of the institution in good condition by cleaning a selected room and maintaining its properties like wall clocks. On the other hand, One Gene: One Child and Medical Mission are annually conducted as the organization’s outside campus outreach activities. Visiting the developmentally challenged children of HOPE Intervention Center during One Gene: One Child is done every first semester. In this program, collected toy and book donations from other organizations
The organization has been doing these activities for a couple of years and it is undeniable that the organization has touched a lot of lives in the simplest way through these. The material things or service that they have received might mean more than what it seems to us. However, I would like to think and hope that these activities mean much more to us. This is my open-letter to my fellow Genes: To my dear Genes: For every Adopt-A-Room or Adopt-A-Wing, I hope that it may remind you of the love and care for every corner of this university (most especially the Institute of Biological Sciences) that molded you to be the person you are right now. For every One Gene: One Child, I hope you see how each one of you is blessed with abilities, and at the extent of what you can do, may you want to help hone others’ abilities too. For every Medical Mission, I hope your eyes were opened to see the great need of others and your desire to serve the people was strengthened whatever career path you may take; and For every new Outreach Activity, I hope that it is instilled in you that an opportunity to help is something that is always present and something you don’t need to wait for. I hope that you would find a way to make an opportunity to help with what you have. Most of all, even as you reach the end of your stay in this university, I hope your heart for the organization would deepen. I would love to see that you will be left with wonderful memories and inspiration with the projects of this committee that it becomes a reason for you to keep coming back to our beloved GeneSoc. As one organization with one goal, we can extend our hands and go beyond what is within reach right now. Love, Outreach <3
11
The Importance of Fields of Genetics
Compiled by Sean Lemuel L. Santos (Hybrizyme)
The field of genetics has made great strides in shaping the society that we live in today. From gene therapy to genetic engineering, genetics played a very crucial role in solving the greatest problems of humanity. In this article, we compiled several insights from various genetics professors in the University of the Philippines–Los Banos on the importance of the fields in genetics to our society.
Quantitative Genetics “Traits that are controlled by many genes and highly affected by the environment are called quantitative traits. These traits are studied in Quantitative Genetics. Traits like height and obesity in humans are examples of quantitative traits. Height is controlled by many genes and can be affected by nutrition and health condition while the child is growing. Obesity can also be affected by nutrition and lifestyle. Obesity results from a complex interaction between diet and physical activity. How important is quantitative genetics in humans? If the genes for obesity are present in your family, then you need to regulate your food intake and at the same time regular exercise is a must. If you want to have taller children, find someone who is taller than you. Provide your child proper nutrition, good health condition and expose your children to proper physical activity. Multiple genes + environmental factors = quantitative traits.” – Dr. Merlyn S. Mendioro Director, Institute of Biological Sciences University of the Philippines-Los Baños
Microbial Genetics “Microbes, being excellent model organisms for biochemical and genetic studies, have made enormous contributions to various aspects of basic and applied sciences. Through rapid advancements in microbial genetics, novel research strategies have given rise to new applications that have a positive impact on humans and society. Some applications include new methods of treating or preventing diseases through drug discovery and gene therapy, solving world hunger by increasing agricultural and livestock productivity through development of high-yield and/ or drought- / flood-resistant plant varieties and disease-free animals, and establishing a sustainable, carbon-neutral energy production systems.” – Dr. Walter A. Laviña Microbiology Division Institute of Biological Sciences, UPLB Population Genetics “Since population genetics attempts to estimate the amount of variation present in a population, predict its pattern and changes overtime, population genetics is actually at the core of evolution and speciation. This allows us to understand how individuals in a population adapt in their environment and their chance of survival in the event of natural selection.” – Prof. Joan Christine O. Adajar Genetics and Molecular Biology Division Institute of Biological Sciences, UPLB
12
Batch Securin: A Novel Key to Stability Failures can be a hurdle for her, she dwells on them. But once she gets back up on her feet, she’s more focused than ever before.
By Jessica Agustin (Securin)
Hesitant to be a part of an organization at first, my decision to join GeneSoc was a big and crucial step, and it was the biggest and most crucial step I took that I would never regret. It was life changing for me because GeneSoc made me realize that I can do more than what I have expected from myself. Joining the organization also made me appreciate the science of genetics and made me realize that genetics is important in our daily lives.
Jessica is very particular with whom she associates herself with. Unless an event calls for her frankness, she still prefers to observe, listen, and hide from everyone’s attention. She never sugarJessica Agustin A war-maiden, equipped with all weapons of sorts. coats, and her candidness is and will always be Her mind, like a bow and arrow, hitting targets with her way of expressing her love and concern. full accuracy and precision even at a vast field with strong winds. Her words, as a lance, piercing everyone’s core. And her heart, as her golden armor, shining brightly and radiates warmth even in the coldest, darkest night. Making everyone comfortable around her is one of Jessica’s skills, though it is masked out by her shyness and quiet voice.
She likes adventure and taking random pictures of what she sees on her daily routine. Playing instruments, reading books, watching the sun set, and being with her family gives her comfort. Her determination to do everything has successfully gained her the impression of being hardworking and dedicated.
About the Batch Name Securin is a multifunctional protein that play a key role in maintaining chromosome stability, DNA repair and mitotic regulation, specifically in the Metaphase–Anaphase transition. It forms a complex with another key protein, Separase, which cleaves the cohesin rings that hold the sister chromatids together. It was discovered almost 20 years ago, but it is only recently that its molecular structure and interaction with other proteins have been elucidated.