Audrey Shao Email and Phone Number

In the Brixius Lab, I am currently researching the structure of the CYP123 P450 enzyme from the Mycobacterium abscessus pathogen, which has been attributed as a significant health threat and a leading cause of infection, disease, and death in hospitals. This pathogen has grown resistance to some antibiotic drugs. Thus, studying the M. abscessus CYP123 P450 enzymes is important to discover potential drug substrates for future drug treatment. As a research assistant, I perform protein purifications, UV/visible spectrophotometric binding and metabolism assays, and X-ray protein crystallography of these CYP123 enzymes. This data will provide insight into the enzyme structures to design drugs that selectively inhibit these pathogenic enzymes to ultimately eliminate the pathogen.

At CVP, I processed and filled hundreds of patients' data daily into the pharmacy computer system following HIPAA procedures. I also compounded various non-manufacturable medications (bioidentical hormones in capsules and creams, customizable pain creams) in the pharmacy's nonsterile lab. Additionally, I managed the inventory of stock medications, handling restocking and reordering measures.

I shadowed and assisted a graduate student researching enzyme reversible 2’OH acylation reactions on RNA for cellular therapeutic purposes. We analyzed RNA samples through cell culturing and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. During weekly group meetings, I communicated recent and relevant publications in research through presentations and discussions.

As a chemistry TA, I assisted teachers with tasks such as setting up/cleaning up and helping students with the assignments. I also took over the instruction of the class when needed, and I guided parents and students with directions or by answering general questions.