DAAD “Future Ukraine” Fellowship: Mariia Chipura Joins the Lutz Research Group

The Lutz Research Group will welcome a new visiting researcher in September: Ukrainian scientist Mariia Chipura will join the group as part of the fully funded DAAD “Future Ukraine” Fellowship.

Mariia Chipura recently completed her Master’s degree in Biology at Kyiv Academic University. Her research examined the role of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC), a molecule related to the DNA base cytosine, in behavioural models of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In particular, she studied the Single Prolonged Stress model, a preclinical animal model used to investigate the behavioural and neurobiological changes associated with PTSD.

Using dot blot assays, a molecular biology method for detecting proteins or nucleic acids, she measured 5-hmC levels in brain regions that play an important role in social interaction, emotion regulation, decision-making, spatial orientation and emotional processing. She also analysed the potential effects of treatment with escitalopram, an antidepressant that increases serotonin levels in the brain.

In addition to her experience with molecular biology techniques, particularly immunohistochemistry, Mariia Chipura is especially interested in the neuroepigenetic mechanisms underlying stress responses. While her previous work examined changes in 5-hmC levels in the brain, she now aims to investigate the specific localization of 5-hmC in the hippocampus, and how it changes after the modulation of the PTSD animal model. Her work therefore addresses an important research gap in the field of neuroepigenetics.

In the long term, Mariia Chipura aims to gain a better understanding of the role of 5-hmC in PTSD and to investigate how this epigenetic modification can be regulated by other proteins. Her research may help uncover the biological mechanisms that contribute to individual differences in how people respond to traumatic experiences. In doing so, it could make an important contribution to a better understanding of the biological foundations of psychological resilience. Continuing her academic career by pursuing a PhD is therefore the next logical step for her.

We are delighted to welcome Mariia Chipura to the Lutz Research Group and wish her every success as she begins her fellowship.