GENEWS 2017 October Issue

Strengthening K4Health's Advocacy...[p.2] Promoting Preconception Health...[p.3] GeneSoc joins PALACASAN 2017...[p.4]

The Executive Interview...[p.5] Genetics Week 2017...[p.6] GeneSoc to host NIGQC 2017...[p.8]

Golden Rice: Alleviating Global Vitamin A Deficiency Through Genetic Engineering [p.9]

2 Strengthening K4Health’s Advocacy: VYLH, GeneSoc and Calapan City LGU Empower the Youth For A Healthier PH

By Joana C. Cruz (Cyclosome), Edited by Ryan John Pascual (Regulon)

Santos (Aptamers). Also on the list is Leann F. Suiton (Cyclosome) who was also part of the K4Health-NampicThe Volunteer Youth Leaders for uan team and was inducted last year.

Health-Philippines (VYLH-Philippines) and The UPLB Genetics Society Similar to K4Health-Nampicuan, lec(GeneSoc) expanded the reach of the tures on community development, K4Health (Kabataan for Health) proj- youth leadership and volunteerism, ect by establishing the second commu- local health situation and health adnity-based youth organization in Cala- vocacies were given by GeneSoc fapan City, Oriental Mindoro, July 1-2. cilitators and invited lecturers. Discussions for the first day of training K4Health (Kabataan for Health) is a focused on the different advocacies of project initiated by the VYLH-Philip- VYLH-Philippines while the second pines and GeneSoc which promotes day focused on deepening the particithe mobilization of the youth to- pants' understanding of the advocacies. wards larger newborn screening coverage, folic acid promotion, and birth Aside from discussing the main advodefects prevention. The four “Ks” cacies of VYLH (newborn screening, stands for “Kabataang Kabalikat ng folic acid, and rare disease), lectures on Komunidad para sa Kalusugan,” em- teenage pregnancy were given during phasizing the role of the youth in ef- the training program due to the alarmfecting change in our community. ing rates (459 and 462 recorded cases in 2015 and 2016, respectively) of Following the implementation of the teenage pregnancy in the municipality. project in Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija, five GeneSoc members in partner- Meanwhile, one of the City Health ship with VYLH- Philippines, Calapan nurses raised the potential challenges City-LGU, and Calapan City Health in the implementation of folic acid in and Sanitation Department (CHSD) relation with the DOH-DepEd Weekconducted the second K4Health Com- ly Iron-Folic acid (WIFA) Supplemunity Youth Training Program. mentation Program in Calapan City.

One of which is the need for waiver For the second edition of K4Health, forms before they can give the folic 30 volunteer youth leaders (VYLs) acid supplement to high school stuwere inducted, 26 Calapan City Youth dents. These requirements, according and four GeneSoc volunteers. The to her, "will be a challenge in obtainfour GeneSoc volunteers were Rozel ing 100% coverage". Nonetheless, she B. Razal (Aptamers), Joana Marie C. hopes to receive help from youth volCruz (Cyclosome), Sean Timothy B. unteers to influence and disseminate Gacutan (Helitron) and Emil Louise M. the importance of taking folic acid.

Other activities were also facilitated such as hands-on activities, teaching demonstration and problem tree analysis which would deepen and integrate the knowledge of the youth volunteers on folic acid, newborn screening, and teenage pregnancy.

The induction of the 30 new members to VYLH-Philippines and the election of VYLH-Calapan Chapter officers culminated the two-day training program.

VYLH-Calapan Chapter are under Batch Kalilintad, the Maranao word for peace.

As part of the K4Health Partnership Framework, VYLH-Philippines Calapan City will be under the direct supervision of City Health Officer Dr. Basilisa Llanto and Population Officer (designate) Dr. Ma. Teresita Bolor of the City Health and Sanitation Department.

The program was sponsored by the Newborn Screening Center - NIH, UP Manila, Institute of Human Genetics - NIH, UP Manila, Provincial Health Office - Oriental Mindoro, Rotary Club of Downtown Calapan, Rotary Club of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro Medical Society and Population Commission - MIMAROPA. The K4Health project, through GeneSoc, was recognized as one of the 20 National Finalists in the 14th Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) or TAYO Awards. The training program is the first K4Health and VYLH-Philippines youth camp in MIMAROPA.

3 Promoting Preconception Health: Team Proactive Kabilin, GeneSoc Conduct “Araw ng Kabilin” For LB Nanays

event and gave a message to the participants and project implementers.

The lecture on preconception health (PH) was given by Ms. Aster Lynn Sur, a registered nurse and Project Development Officer at the Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health - University of the Philippines Manila. Her talk delved into different scopes of PH such as preterm births, birth defects, and the LINC framework. LINC stands for healthy Lifestyle, Infection prevention, good Nutrition and Contraception or planning the family. The LINC or the four main aspects of preconception care was also used as the framework of the preconception health education sessions conducted in the community.

By Sean Lemuel Santos (Hybrizyme) Edited by Ryan John Pascual (Regulon) LOS BANOS, LAGUNA - With a strong motivation to educate the women of Los Baños about preconception health, The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc), as one of the member youth organizations of Team Proactive Kabilin, spearheaded “Araw ng Kabilin”, a preconception health fair held at the Municipal Hall of Los Baños, Laguna on July 20, 2017 (Thursday).

Meanwhile, DOH NBS Program Nurse Coordinator for CALABARZON sir Jose Antonio Yap presented the second lecture which focused on the Newborn Screening Program (NBS). NBS is a medical program mandated by law under Republic Act 9288. It allows for the detection of some metabolic disorders that a newborn child could have. Mr. Yap, during his lecture, mentioned that newborn screening is very essential that it needs to be carried out 24 hours after birth. He also underscored the six common metabolic disorders included in the basic NBS test namely: Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH), Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), Galactosemia (GAL), Phenylketonuria (PKU), G6PD Deficiency (G6PDD), and Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD). Aside from these six, 22 other disorders could also be detected through the expanded newborn screening test.

The “Araw ng Kabilin” is the culminating activity of Project Kabilin Kalusugan para sa LB Nanays, a youth-led initiative carried out by Team Proactive Kabilin and VYLH-Philippines, which seeks to promote public awareness on the importance of preconception health. The project drew inspiration from the absence of a preconception health program in the country. For the last lecture, Ms. Nancy L. Reyes, a representaProject Kabilin Kalusugan is also the first community-based tive of PhilHealth-Calamba, discussed the benefits and preconception health promotion program in the country. importance of being a member of PhilHealth. Ms. Reyes enumerated the in-patient benefits, out-patient beneFourteen barangay health wokers who were previously fits and Z-benefit package provided by PhilHealth. The trained by the team and 19 "nanays" from Brgy. Mayondon, Z benefits refer to those which can be availed for serithe partner community of the project and other barangays of ous diseases or health conditions that require expensive Los Baños attended the preconception fair. treatment and medicine.

Project Kabilin Kalusugan is one of the finalists for the Ideas Positive (Run 7), a national competition organized by the Unilab Foundation which aims to stimulate and support youth projects that help solve public health concerns found in the community.

Besides these lectures, free-HIV testing was also conducted through the help of medical volunteers from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine. The participants also received brochures on the topics discussed. Personal hygiene kits were also distributed as part of the campaign to promote infection prevention and health care.

“Araw ng Kabilin” was launched alongside the observance of National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week The program was organized by Team Proactive Kabilin which happened from July 19-23 of this year. which is composed of the following VYLH-Philippines Los Baños Chapter members: Jeanne Ruth Basas (PhilThe term “Kabilin” is a Visayan term which means pamana ippine Association of Nutrition Alpha Omega Chapter/ or legacy. Combined with the term “Proactive”, it connotes PAN-AO), Manette Perez (PAN-AO), Joshua Hernandez that there is a need to safeguard and boost preconception (GeneSoc), Jedidiah Sarmiento (UP Community Broadhealth because it will soon have an impact on their health casters Society) and Angelica Obrador (Rotaract Club of and their children. In addition to promoting informed and Los Banos). healthy choices, preconception health is important in the prevention of birth defects and pre-term births which can The team conducted the fair with the support of one of lead to infant death or long-term disabilities. its partner organizations, The UPLB Genetics Society and following project partners: the Office of the Mayor, MuDuring the health fair, lectures were conducted regarding nicipal Health Office, Barangay Mayondon, Institute of preconception health, importance of folic acid supplemen- Human Genetics, NIH-UP Manila, UP Los Banos Office tation, newborn screening, and PhilHealth. The municipal of Student Affairs, and Ideas Positive of Unilab Foundahealth officer of Los Baños, Dr. Alvin Isidioro, graced the tion.

4 GeneSoc Joins PALACASAN 2017, Stands Out At Opening contest’s motif. Ms. Balisi was wearing a dragon egg-inspired costume with a medieval crown whereas Mr. Diezon’s attire was based from a dragon hunter using the skull of the beast as his head attire.

Org Gimmick Subsequently, the last but certainly not the least performance by the baby batches had encountered quite a few technical difficulties.

Nevertheless, it didn’t fail to let the audience experience the thrill and suspense that pierced on the horrible issues of extra judicial killings and the Oplan Tokhang.

By Regina Lapuz (Replichore) LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA – After previously hosting the annual sports event, The UPLB Genetics Society is back again as a contender among the 14 orgs competing for the title of PalaCASan 2017 overall champion.

In the recent opening ceremony dubbed as BuCASan 2017, GeneSoc displayed its showcase of talented brods and sisses during the opening’s Mr. and Ms. PalaCASan and Org Gimmick competition.

Among the 14 competing groups, The UPLB Genetics Society was one to look out for with their representatives for Mr. and Ms. PalaCASan: Mr. Jim Allen P. Diezon and Ms. Cherlstin Grace E. Balisi as well as the participants of the org gimmick comprised of the baby batches: Helitron, Spireme and Polintons.

Genews: What were your thoughts re- Lance Lopez (Org Gimmick participant): “During the preparations, everyone was just garding the pageant? chilling out as the plans were discussed. As Cherlstin Balisi (Ms. PalaCASan 2017 the event comes to a close, the feelings of pressure and anxiousness dominated my emotions candidate): “It was never unusual when I found out resulting to a more serious practice with my that I would be the one representing Ms. associates. At the time of competition, most PalaCASan for the UPLB Genetics So- of them were just relaxing while I experience ciety since joining pageants was second numbness from head to toe especially when nature to me but still it felt different. It our music did not immediately played. It all was surreal. After long and tiring weeks happened like a breeze.” of preparation, the BuCASan event finally happened. I felt okay at first before the Marlon Rex Tan (Org Gimmick participant): entrance but the moment we entered DL “I felt very nervous during the event because Umali I felt a gushing feeling of nervous- I can feel the hype and pressure from watchness causing my body to shiver due to ing all the other orgs' gimmick wondering if the hype, excitement and banging sounds we'd be able to outdo them. Throughout the of cheers and yells from each individu- preparation I felt happy no kidding because I als rooting for their favorites. And based can see, evidently, each member's cooperation from what I saw, it was evident that losing especially the head and that's what you would was never an option from these different want to achieve in a group work. Overall we made it an enjoyable time”. organizations.”

In line with this, the Genews Team got the chance to interview some of them to share Jim Allen Diezon (Mr. PalaCASan canditheir feelings and thoughts regarding the date): “Apparently, Che and I were apprehensive most anticipated event. particularly at the beginning of the pageant. Well in fact, that was my very first pageant over the past 10 years. I actually participated in a pageant amidst grade school. This time, it was somewhat different. Perhaps, the audience had an impact even the other participants whose coma.y. 2017-2018 posure had led them to not feel any pressure. But during the course of sashaying, Editor-in-Chief I would consider that the tension we had on the first part actually vanished and was Sean Lemuel L. Santos (Hybrizyme) instantly replaced by confidence. I still can’t explain what happened but I’m tellLay-out Editors: ing you until the latter part of the contest, Emil Louise Santos (Aptamers) Che and I refused to falter.”

GENEWS TEAM

John Paolo Janiola (Replichore)

GENEWS Staff:

Joana Marie Cruz (Cyclosome) Andrea Kariza Formantes (Cyclosome) Regina Lapuz (Replichore) Katrina Dela Peña (Casposons) Lady Rose Montano (Helitron) Blaire de Borja (Helitron) Sean Gacutan (Helitron) Uriah Pancho (Replichore) Niña Avena (Hybrizyme) Allyzzia Irish Montifar (Hybrizyme) Louise Jan Lopez (Replichore) Louise Nicole Dizon (Proteasome)

The event started with a dance performance from the contestants which was followed by the Sportswear category. And even though last to walked on stage, Ms. Balisi and Mr. Diezon were sashaying along with a tennis apparel while demonstrating some skills related to the sport.

The next showcased event was the talent portion wherein Mr. and Ms. Genesoc, clothed in white, performed a heart felting yet melancholic interpretative dance that portrayed a young boy compelling his lover to return his affection.

After a series of org gimmicks, the most awaited part of the pageant was the creative wear since in this segment, the organization had the chance to express their own interpretation in accordance to the

With the awarding of contestants, genes shouted out a cheer spelled as “G-O-O-D –J-O-B! GENESOC!” and that long yell became the most significant factor in boosting and enhancing the confidence and poise of the competitors.

Lady Rose Montano (Org Gimmick participant): ”I have never quite imagined myself to be an accent of a play or the muse of the stage.

It was one of my unreachable dreams, thanks to my nerves and queasy guts. But it does not belong to the playlist of unobtainable hopes anymore. It’s because I’ve got to perform with the best people. That September night was awesome. Performing to a multitude of foreign faces was indeed frightful and exciting and frightful again. It felt like my insides were having a rock band concert like no other. But the performance was not the best part for me.

It was the people rooting for us – all cheering and yelling ‘til their voices became hoarse and scratchy. I have never been so thankful for them. My soul’s been touched by all the support and love. You’re the best, Genes”.

Ms. Balisi: “It was a different sensation when it was Genesoc’s turn to shine. It lessen the tension I was feeling in that moment. The sense of overwhelming support from genes ensured that I wasn’t the only one competing in the pageant because together, we all are. And after hearing those shouts, Jim and I just went with the flow like it was completely normal. Although we did not received any award, at the end of the day, Genesoc was still proud of us and besides, we were not after the achievements, but the experience and enjoyment were considered.”

5 The Executive Interview Compiled by Ma. Katrina Dela Peña (Casposons) Recently, the 34th executive committee of The UPLB Genetics Society was interviewed to answer a question that relates to the nature of their mandate. It has been months since they were inducted and it is good to know how they see and do things differently, now that they are in the “seat” of the organization. This is what they have to say:

How do you manage your stress when organizing the org’s finances?

“I drop everything and run. Running calms my nerves and gives me time to think and organize my thoughts and ideas. When running isn’t an option, I resolve things over good food and good company (usually my fin comm). Most times however, when everything feels What motivates you to lead an academic like it is set on fast forward, a few deep breaths would do.” –Hannah S. De Jesus organization despite being busy in your (Cyclosome), Treasurer

academics?

“No one/nothing motivates me more than the members, the organization itself. In GeneSoc, the accomplishment of one is the accomplishment of the whole. Seeing them happy, whether it be for a successful event or a good academic grade, is motivation enough. Being a leader and being a student is difficult yet rewarding, but nothing is a priority over the other, both responsibilities are equally important.” –Rozel B. Razal (Aptamers), President

Why is it necessary for an organization to be socially aware and active?

“Stay woke” a mainstream term in our society nowadays has turned social awareness into a whole new level. Being a socially aware and active organization can safeguard us against the blindside by being a catalyst of change and knowing our roles. It will mold an organization to become aware of its surroundings and dig deeper into the issues of society. Staying aware helps to develop empathy that involves putting oneself in another’s shoes and understand their How do you approach members who have situations better and with broader perspective. It is a right to have personal problems? become socially aware and it is a right that’s not difficult to earn. #StayWoke” –Ahllyzzia Irish A. Montifar (Hybrizyme), Public Relations “There is no universal rule on how Officer

to help people with their problems especially because people have different personalities and perspectives. As the membership committee head, I always make it to a point that they (the members) see me as someone they could confide and listen to their problems without any judgement or bias.” –Marie Alessandra T. Reyes (Casposons), Vice-President What is the most important attitude that a secretary must have?

Detail-oriented. From permits to letters to minutes, detail is inevitably important. I think it's vital that a secretary must have a good eye for details. Especially when everyone is looking at the bigger picture, the secretary should be the one to see if the group missed small details which could sometimes be a major turning point of an event. As the secretary, people would ask me how I manage to remember important details. Honestly, I tend to be forgetful so I always make it a point to write it down – Ma. Katrina Dela Peña (Casposons), Secretary

How did the science of Genetics help our society improve?

“Through genetics we learned about our gene, our ancestry, our origin. It contributed to the elucidation of how organisms came about. And as this field progresses, it continuously provides new technologies which can help in the betterment of the human race. Examples of which is its contribution in the field of forensics and medicine.” –Joana Marie C. Cruz (Cyclosome), Education Committee Head How does the use of art help in communicating Genetics and other sciences?

“Genetics for some, is quite a scary subject and to use art to convey meaning can transform complex concepts into simpler terms with the use of pictures, visual aids, and other art forms. Since most concepts in genetics involve molecules that are too small to be seen, art helps by providing broader and better picture of biology that can be appreciated and understood.” –Sean Timothy B. Gacutan (Helitron), Projects Committee Head

6 From Nucleotides to Neurons: GeneSoc to feature Human Brain in Genetics Week 2017

human brain slowly unfolding, revealing to us how all those neurons, chemicals, and hormones packed inside the With the theme, “Gene-Wired: human ‘light-bulb’ originates from the Transcribing the Genetic Blueprint stretches of our DNA. of the Human Brain”, The UPLB Genetics Society will feature how Genetics and Neuroscience genetics relate to the study of the The study of the brain in the light of most complex organ in the body. genetics began in the mid-20th centuFrom October 9-13, GeneSoc will ry. It was Seymour Benzer, considered fire up neurons as it conducts the by many as the father of neurogenetics, Genetics Week 2017 at the Wing who started to develop the field in the C lobby of the Institute of Biolog- early 1960s by studying the brains of a ical Sciences in the University of fruit fly, Drosophila. One of his early the Philippines – Los Banos. It will researches focused on how the genes showcase in its exhibit a wide array affect our sleep-wake cycle (California of relevant topics that delve deeper Institute of Technology, 2017). This into the human brain through the cycle, also called circadian rhythms, lenses of genetics. is partly controlled by the brain along with other organs (Tortora & DerrickThe brain is the most complex or- son, 2011). gan in the body. It controls our sensations, allows us to speak, coordi- Clock Genes nates our movement, dictates when Decades after Benzer’s research, nuwe will sleep, and many others. But merous studies about genes related deep beneath the complexity of our to sleep emerged. Recent studies have biological supercomputer lies the found out that there is such a thing complexity of its genes. Like any as “clock genes” – genes which affect other organ, the brain is a product our sleeping patterns. Scientists have of an expressed information – the discovered that these clock genes are genes-in-action. The genes explain found in a part of the brain known as how a baby brain develops into an the suprachiasmatic nucleus or SCN adult one, what made the human (Resnick, 2017) – the one that signals brains evolve from ancestral ones, the pineal gland to drug us to sleep why some are nocturnal while oth- (Tortora & Derrickson, 2011). These ers are early-risers, etc. clock genes in the SCN are repeatedly turned on and off in a 24-hour cyGenes are a powerful tool in study- cle, releasing proteins when turned on ing the information behind the hu- and stops when turned off (Hastings, man brain. They are the blueprints 1998). In other words, the on-and-off of the brain’s architecture. By un- cycle might be the reason why we have derstanding the genes, we begin to a sleep-and-wake cycle. see the underlying mysteries of the

By Sean Lemuel Santos (Hybrizyme)

Brain Evolution Sleep is a very essential activity both exhibited by us humans and our chimp cousins. However, what sets us apart from other primates is our ability to construct language.

About a million years ago, early humans evolved to have a larger neocortex, a part of the brain responsible for language. And the reason for this could be partially attributed to a single change in the sequence of DNA. Marta Florio of the Harvard Medical School and her colleagues in Germany studied a gene called ARHGAP11B found in Neanderthals and Denisovans but not in chimpanzees.

They found out that this gene multiplies ‘immature’ cells that would later become the neurons of the brain. The ancestor of the gene, the ARHGAP11A on the other hand, is the one found in chimpanzees and cannot do what the former does.

Florio and her colleagues discovered that the ARHGAP11B gene can be turned to look like the ARHGAP11A gene by changing a single base (C into G) in the sequence. And when this happens, the ability of the ARHGAP11B gene to multiply immature cells was lost (Batsakis, 2016).

This implies that the evolution of a larger brain was significantly influenced by even a single substitution of a base.

Epigenetics of Stress When it comes to our brain’s stress response, genetics also play a key role. In one study of animal behav-

7 ior, researchers have observed that rats with nurturing mothers tend to become less susceptible to stressors whereas those rats with negligent mothers tend to become the opposite. The reason for this is that, when the rats were nurtured, the genes which respond to stress become inactivated - an example of epigenetic changes or changes in which genes are turned on without necessarily changing the DNA. These epigenetic changes are reversible, meaning that the more sensitive rats could become less sensitive to stress when their negligent mothers are swapped with nurturing ones. Moreover, these epigenetic changes can be passed down to succeeding generations (University of Cambridge, 2017).

GENETICS WEEK 2017 ACTIVITIES

Predisposed Addiction Addiction was once believed as a person’s own sinful decision. But recently, science has shown that addiction is not just personal and environmental but is also highly influenced by our genes. For instance, researchers have found out that a variant allele in the DRD2 gene (gene that codes for dopamine receptor) is more common in alcoholic and cocaine-addicted people. On the other, in another study using mice, it was discovered that those mice without the Htr1b gene (gene for serotonin receptor) tend to be more addicted to alcohol and cocaine (Genetic Science Learning Center, 2013).

The Aging Brain Genes also affect brain aging. In a study done by researchers at the Columbia University Medical Center, it was found out that a gene called TMEM106B affects the aging of a brain region called frontal cortex. The frontal cortex is the one located in the frontal lobe and is responsible for higher cognitive functions (Tortora & Derrickson, 2011). In a group of people aged 65 and above, those that have two ‘bad’ copies of the TMEM106B gene have a frontal cortex that looks 12 years older than those with two ‘good’ copies of the gene. When a person reaches 65 and has two ‘bad’ copies, his/her brain responds badly to stressors and ages hastily. The opposite occurs in a person with two ‘good’ copies. The study published in Cell Systems also noted that this TMEM106B gene could be responsible for the onset of a certain type of dementia (Columbia University Medical Center, 2017).

Alzheimer’s Disease As we age, there are numerous diseases that our brain could suffer from. One of them is Alzheimer’s disease.

Characterized mainly by the loss of short-term memory, Alzheimer’s disease or simply AD is a brain disease that could also be traced in our DNA. According to the National Institutes of Health of the U.S., there is a gene called APOE which contribute to the development AD. The APOE gene has at least three different variants (alleles) namely: E2, E3, and E4. The APOE E4 allele is the one which has been linked to AD. People who have one copy of this allele have a high risk of developing AD. Meanwhile, those which have two copies are at a higher risk for AD onset. This E4 allele is linked to the accumulation of plaques in the brain tissue which could result to the death of brain cells and the beginnings of AD (National Institutes of Health, 2017).

with the data from the DNA. In other words, the phenotype (the brain) is associated with the genotype. And since people have varied genotypes, scientists can then begin to point out which of those might be causing a particular change in the brain.

Surprisingly, there have been instances where even only a single change in the DNA sequence caused a huge difference in the structure of the brain (Bigos, Hariri, & Weinberger, 2016).

Intelligence Genes If our brains become less intelligent as we age, could we possibly reverse the process? The answer to this is yes, at least genetically. In 1999, scientists at the Princeton University tried to genetically improve intelligence by inserting a gene called NR2B in mice named “Doogie”. This NR2B gene excites the receptors in the hippocampus, a regiont of the brain responsible for memory (Tortora & Derrickson, 2011). As a result of the gene’s action, the mice showed better memory and more improved learning abilities. More interestingly, these mice were able to retain their intelligence unlike other mice which displayed a decline in their mental abilities (Radford, 1999).

Genes and the human brain are inseparable. The brain, being the most complex of all the organs, are traceable in the most complex biomolecule, the DNA. The genetics of the human brain reveal a deeper understanding of the brain’s development, its evolutionary history, its diseases, how it ages, and how it can be cured. And knowing this, it can surely be said that the human brain is a gene-wired architecture of nature

Neuroimaging To better understand neurodegenerative diseases like Alz- (Note: the reference list of the published feature article can heimer’s, the brain must be examined by looking into its be seen at the online version) structure. This is where an emerging technology called Neuroimaging Genetics comes into play. In Neuroimaging Genetics, the data from brain images are correlated

8 GeneSoc to host NIGQC 2017, delves into Forensic Genetics

By The GENEWS Team

Once again, The UPLB Genetics Society gears up as it hosts another installment of the much-awaited National Intercollegiate Genetics Quiz Contest (NIGQC) to be held on November 4, at the Umali Auditorium, SEARCA-UPLB. With the theme, “Mapping Molecular Traces: Decoding Forensic Mysteries through Modern Genetic Breakthroughs”, NIGQC 2017 will dig deep into the forensic applications of Genetics and provide a plethora of exciting developments in the said field.

ry in U.P. Diliman and an honorary member of GeneSoc.

Last year, Ateneo De Manila University defended their championship title against other 12 participating schools, followed by UP Manila and UP Baguio, grabbing the 2nd and 3rd spot respectively. It was also during the 7th NIGQC when the organizers introduced the Genetic Drift round, a new twist in the mechanics of the quiz contest. This year, Leann Suiton, the Steering Committee Head of NIGQC 2017 promises NIGQC is an annual competition sponsored by “a one-of-a-kind quiz contest with twists and The UPLB Genetics Society, open to all under- thrills that will surely excite the participants”. graduate students all over the country under degree programs such as (but not limited to) B.S. Already included in the roster of registered Biology, B.S. Molecular Biology and Biotech- participants are: UP Manila, University of San nology, B.S. Biochemistry, and B.S. Agriculture. Agustin, Ateneo De Manila University, UniFor the past years, NIGQC has featured topics versity of Santo Tomas, Pamantasan ng Lungrelevant to pressing societal issues and in line sod ng Maynila, Polytechnic University of the with the organization’s objective of promoting Philippines-Sta. Mesa, UP Baguio, Far Eastern awareness and creative appreciation of the ge- University, Ateneo De Zamboanga Universinetic sciences and its potential contribution to ty, Bulacan State University, Southern Luzon State University, Xavier University and De La nation-building.

Salle-Lipa. Suiton expects more schools as the The 8th NIGQC will highlight the emerging sci- deadline of the registration approaches. ence of Forensic Genetics and its timely relevance in current issues in the Philippines. Also part of the program is a talk on the importance of genetics as a powerful tool in aiding judiciary and legislative processes by Dr. Ma. Corazon de Ungria, Head of the DNA Analysis Laborato-

9 Golden Rice: Alleviating Global Vitamin A Deficiency Through Genetic Engineering

cross-pollination only occurs when both GM and non-GM rice are flowering at the same time; so, it is very easy to prevent this by planting the crops at different times.

In terms of practicality, Anti-GMOs argue that Golden rice does not produce enough beta-carotene and that there are many other ways of obtaining Vitamin A like eating Vitamin A rich foods instead of eating Golden rice.

An image of the GMO called Golden Rice (Image taken from: www.gmwatch.org)

By Sean Lemuel Santos (Hybrizyme) Edited by Andrea Formantes (Cyclosome)

rice would aid in alleviating vitamin A deficiency especially in children worldwide.

Researches about genetically modifying an organism are still a recurring issue in our society. Many anti-GMOs believe that these are unsafe for consumption yet despite the criticisms, scientists still continue to breed and improve on new crop varieties that will benefit the mankind.

Despite Golden rice being a realistic, complementary solution in reducing Vitamin A deficiency, many anti-GMO activists still vehemently oppose the continuation of the Golden rice project as well as other GM crops.

In genetic engineering, a desired gene from a DNA of a certain organism is incorporated to the DNA of another organism. Unlike in conventional breeding, genetic engineering can generate desirable crops in a more specific way and at a faster pace. One promising genetically modified crop that is currently being developed is the Golden rice.

The development of the golden rice is due to the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency among children worldwide. In the Philippines alone, about 2.1 million children suffer from Vitamin A deficiency, as reported by Ocampo in 2017, which is a manifestation of the poverty in the country. Although, many interventions have also been put in place like: breastfeeding programs, Vitamin A supplementation and food fortification. However, these interventions have been insufficient in combatting Vitamin A deficiency. Indeed, there is a need to develop a sustainable solution that would globally alleviate vitamin A deficiency.

Anti-GMOs commonly argue that Golden rice is very unsafe to be ingested and can even have long term effects on a person’s health. However, this is not true because based on the study conducted by Tang, Qin, Dolnikowski, Russell, & Grusak in 2009 it shows that the beta-carotene in golden rice is the same beta-carotene present in carrots. Another study by the Golden Rice Project validated that golden rice does not contain compounds that can cause allergies or act as a toxin. Also, further tests are still being done to determine the safety of Golden rice before it is released to the public.

It is therefore very presumptuous to say that it is already unsafe when experiments are still unfinished.

But assuming that Golden rice is unsafe, should we then throw out genetic engineering and give up on the development of this technology?

Remember, when cars were first introduced in the market, many people feared that cars would be unsafe and might explode since it carries gasoline. But engineers did not stop on improving cars. Now, millions of people are using automobiles and have benefitted Golden rice, currently being developed by IRRI from the progress made by improving and and PhilRice, is similar to other types of rice, not giving up on something that was iniexcept that it has two more genes that have tially perceived as unsafe. been added in its DNA. One gene came from a corn while the other one was taken from a soil Another reason for their objection is the bacterium. These two genes are responsible in possibility of cross-pollination between producing two enzymes that complete the pro- Golden rice and non-genetically modified cess for producing beta-carotene, something (GM) rice. They feared that when this happens, it could lead to the loss of biodiversithat is not present in other rice varieties. ty among the non-GM rice.

According to Dr. Steven Ehrlich in 2015, the beta-carotene is responsible for its yellowish Scientists working at Golden rice have alcolor. It is a compound that is also present ready put up measures to prevent this. First, in carrots, squash and papaya. Beta-carotene, the area where Golden rice plants have been when taken up by the body, is converted to Vi- planted are placed at a certain distance tamin A. Any excess is simply excreted. There- away from non-GMs, making cross-pollinafore, increasing the amounts of vitamin A in tion very unlikely. Also based on PhilRice,

First of all, the current Golden rice has been improved to produce 20x more beta-carotene than the initial one as stated by Andy Coghlan in 2005. Also, eating Vitamin A rich diet is very far-fetched to poor families, considering the fact that they cannot even afford to buy foods rich in Vitamin A. With this, scientists developed it on rice to get sufficient Vitamin A since rice is the most consumed staple crop in developing countries that would be more accessible and affordable to poor families.

Another objection that they have raised is that Golden rice might be used only for commercialization where the big companies would get most of the economic gains. To be fair enough, if Golden rice is indeed being commercialized, the government must be asked to put measures in order to prohibit its sole use for economic gain and not for humanitarian reasons. But is Golden rice really being commercialized?

Golden rice was initiated through the aid of the Rockefeller Foundation in 1982. When the Golden rice was developed, the people involved in the project donated this technology to poor countries like the Philippines that it may alleviate the problem of Vitamin A deficiency. And currently, Golden rice is being developed by the Philippine Rice Research Institute, a government organization and the International Rice Research Institute, a non-profit organization.

Despite these objections, Golden rice remains to be a very safe, viable, and practical solution to solve the Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) crisis in poor countries as evidence suggests. Golden rice is the penicillin of the future. When Alexander Fleming made the very first antibiotic, millions of children were spared of dying from bacterial infections. Similarly, with the introduction of Golden rice, millions of children suffering from VAD could avoid the risks of getting blind or infected.

There may be fear, doubt and opposition to Golden rice being a GM crop, but it is a technology worth considering and developing, especially now that we are in an era of scientific advancements. It may still be not perfect (though there is no technology that is), but it should still be kept and improved for the benefit of the present and future generations.

10 GeneSoc Members Among the Newly Inducted Members of Phi Sigma and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Societies

By The GENEWS Team

Eight members of The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc) attended the induction ceremonies of the Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society last May 13, 2017 at the National Institute of Physics, UP Diliman, Quezon City, and the International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the New College of Arts and Sciences Auditorium, UPLB last May 24.

New Phi Sigma Members

and NIGQC Steering Committee Head (AY 2016-2017).

Rochelle B. Sarmiento Taking up BS Biology major in Genetic, Rochelle (Batch Polylinker) was among the 2015 and 2016 Top 44 CAS Outstanding Students. She was also the former Outreach Committee Head and the current Public Relations Committee Head of GeneSoc. Apart from Phi Sigma, she was also inducted as a junior member of Phi Kappa Phi last 2016.

New Phi Kappa Phi Members Being elected to membership of The International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi this year are Faith Adan, Vincent Lunario, and Rozel Razal.

Newly-inducted members of the Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society (L-R: Vincent Kua D.O. Lunario, Rency J. Raquid, Paul Jhon P. Diezon, Pamela Ysabel B. Mendoza, Mary Faith Y. Adan, Rochelle B. Sarmiento)

Rozel B. Razal Rozel (Batch Aptamers) headed the 2016 Sponsorhips Committee of PalaCASan and the Committee for Medicines during the 2016 Medical Mission. She was also recognized as part of the 2015 and 2016 Top 44 CAS Outstanding Students. This AY 2017-2018, Rozel is set to lead the organization as she has recently been elected as the President/Executive Committee Head of GeneSoc.

Mary Faith Y. Adan Faith of Batch Proteasome is a BS Biology major in Microbiology Student. She has been a member of GeneSoc’s Documentation Committee since she became part of the organization.

Aside from Phi Sigma, she has recently been inducted as a senior member of The International Honor Society Phi Kappa Phi last May 24.

2015 and 2016 Phi Kappa Phi Inductees of GeneSoc

Shaira F. Bañega A BS Agricultural Biotechnology major in Crop Biotechnology student, Shaira (Batch Polylinker) led the Awards Committee of the two major activities of GeneSoc— the 2015 National Intercollegiate Genetics Quiz Contest (NIGQC) and 2016 Genetics Camp.

Morel Dominic D. Umipon Majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology, Morel Dominic of Batch Proteasome is the current Education Committee Head of GeneSoc. He was among the Top 44 CAS Outstanding Students in 2015 and 2016.

Paul Jhon P. Diezon Paul Jhon (Batch Phagemids), a BS Biology major in Cell and Molecular Biology student, was recently awarded as one of the 2016 Ten Outstanding Jose Rizal Model Students of the Philippines. He has also been recognized as among the Top 44 CAS Outstanding Students in 2015 and 2016. Aside from Phi Sigma, PJ was also inducted as a junior member of Phi Kappa Phi last 2015.

Reinier John D. Grona Reinier John of Batch Riboswitch majors in Cell and Molecular Biology under UPLB’s BS Biology program. He spearheaded GeneSoc’s Logistics and Accommodations Committee during the NIGQC in 2015.

Vincent Kua D.O. Lunario A BS Biology major in Genetics student, Vincent (Batch Riboswitch) was the Logisitcs Committee Head during GeneSoc’s Medical Mission in 2016. He also served as the Technicals Committee Head of Genetics Camp 2016. He has also recently been inducted as a senior member of Phi Kappa Phi last May 24.

Pamela Ysabel B. Mendoza Pamela of Batch Cyclosome is taking up BS Biology major in Zoology. She has been a member of GeneSoc’s Documentation Committee since she joined the organization. She is also a part of the UPLB Women’s Football Varsity.

Rency J. Raquid Majoring in Plant Biology, Rency (Batch Riboswitch) served as GeneSoc's Documentation Committee Head (AY 2015-2016)

Paul Jhon Diezon PJ Diezon was elected to membership of The International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi in 2015. Rochelle Sarmiento, Morel Dominic Umipon, and Heway Christian Serra, were among the inductees of Phi Kappa Phi in 2016.

Heway Christian A. Serra Heway (Batch Phagemids), who took up BS Agriculture Major in Agronomy, was the Technicals Committee Head of NIGQC in 2014. Aside from Phi Kappa Phi, he was also inducted as a member of Phi Sigma in 2016.

Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society An international honor society in the biological sciences devoted to the promotion of research and academic excellence, Phi Sigma was founded on March 1915 at the Ohio State University in Columbia, Ohio. The Alpha Chi Chapter was established through the efforts of the late Dr. Gregorio T. Velasquez with membership in the American Association of College Honor Societes and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Members of Phi Sigma are expected to maintain high scholarship, promote active research, and acquaint others with results of worthy achievements in the biological field.

The International Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Phi Kappa Phi is among the oldest and most respected academic honor societies with more than 1 million members in its global network. Membership to this honor society is highly competitive and is by invitation only, requiring nomination and approval by the respective chapters of the honor society. Those invited to membership include the upper 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors, outstanding graduate students, faculty, administrators, professional staff and alumni.

The University of the Philippines Chapter of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Chapter 045, was installed on January 17, 1933 by 14 scholars. The chapter has almost 9,000 members to date.

11 From the German Word 'Spirem'

ing oblivious. He forgets many things, may it be a lesson just discussed or a pleasant memory from a recent event. Lance is a practical and simple person. Sports is also one of his comfort zones because he feels freedom and delight every time he runs. You would not see him talking often because of his poor social skills, but beneath the silence you will find heaps of ideas, thoughts, and opinions about the world. All of which are waiting to be shared.

Compiled by Lady Rose Ricel Montano (Helitron), Edited by Joana Marie Cruz (Cyclosome)

In the late 1800s, a German histologist by the name of Walther Flemming first coined the term "spireme" to refer to tangles of chromatin threads that are formed during the early phases of cell division. After its formation, this structure undergoes fission to form the chromosomes which contain the genetic information of an individual. And with its role in the process of cell division, the 103rd batch of GeneSoc was named after it.

The members of Batch Spireme are Lance Lopez and Micko Alojado. These two are both Batch '15 BS Biology students, majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology and Zoology, respectively.

To know more about the newest member of the genepool, here are short biographies which narrate their personalities and life experiences.

When Lance was a child he had lots of opportunity to play with toys. In such activity, he was limitless. He can turn mono blocks into buildings, ice cream boxes to elevators and shoe boxes into cars.

As he got older, he began making toys of his own from scraps or broken toys, anything that can be a part of his invention. This is where he found his greatest strengths – imagination and creativity. Unfortunately, as he became more aware of his environment and the realities of the world, the sparks of creativity and imagination faded. His life became dull, passive and cyclic. He soon suffered from be-

Micko Alojado is the kind of person that you would tend to forget after seeing him once. He is not very social, keeps only to himself, and rarely speaks to anybody outside his small circle of friends. However, due to being the overly self-conscious person that he is, he easily saw the need to widen his horizons. Micko always wanted to become better but his laziness and fear of confrontation always get the better of him. It was only after a ridiculously long time of contemplation that he finally mustered up the courage to start turning his life around and join The UPLB Genetics Society so that he can start living to serve people other than himself. Despite not being the biggest fan of student organizations, he sought to be more open-minded about them and to experience life outside his tiny circle. Though he is afraid of what is to come, he does not let this hinder him from trying to do his part in the organization because he knows that this is for his own good. Knowing this, he soldiers forward and ventures into a new chapter in his life, completely alien and different to anything he has experienced so far.

The newest members of this organization hopes that their enthusiasm for promulgating the science of Genetics will not end. They desire to spread written messages within our genome and inspire others to explore the simple, yet exquisite chemical backbone of life.

Becoming part of this society, Lance and Micko will now embody the objectives and the purpose of The UPLB Genetics Society. And like spiremes which will eventually condense and form chromosomes, these two young geneticists will likewise craft themselves up as excellent and strongwilled carriers of GeneSoc's legacy.

12 Polintons: The Independent Genes

Compiled and Edited by Blaire de Borja (Helitron)

Polintons, in simpler sense, are a type of genes that jump from genome to genome - like a ping pong ball moving from one table side to another. What is very unique about Polintons is that, unlike other “jumping genes”, it can produce its own proteins to double itself. In fact, its very name was derived from two enzymes that allow them to replicate: polymerase and integrase.

With a genome that is relatively large, Polintons can encode up to 10 different proteins. More surprisingly, some studies suggest that Polintons could potentially have the ability to form viruses. Because of its peculiar characteristics that represent the lovely and mysterious nature of genetics, it then became the name of the 104th batch of Genesoc.

The sole member of Batch Polintons is Renald James Legaspi who is a 3rd year BS Biology – Major in Genetics student. To know more about Renald here is a short biography narrated by him about his life experiences and personality.

At the age of 7, his father bought him a Gameboy Advance, the first gadget he got. From then, he loved to play virtual games. Supermario brothers was his first love, Balloon fight was his first frustration and Megaman was h is first hero. He also loves cartoons like Pokemon, Doraemon, Digimon and even Mojacko. His childhood was filled with fantasies and dreams of a kid. With such love to games, Renald believes in heroism and might even dream of becoming one.

Besides having such undeniable love for video games, he also spends his leisure time writing articles and poetries. In fact, he even became a part of the journalism club back when he was in high school, earning medals and recognition not just from writing but also from singing, academics and his science inventions; with his creative mind it seems that he’s unstoppable which is why he found himself entering the most prestigious state university in the Philippines.

After high school, where he graduated with honors, he entered a dramatic period of his life.

College life is not really hard for him just except for certain episodes.

There are circumstances wherein he needed to make a decision based on his religion-based values or based from what the society dictates.

Such circumstances make him feeble and weak. However, he is still learning the ways of life just like a Polinton, jumping from one genome to another but still retaining parts of it.

Because to him, it is very important that no matter what happens, your past is always a big part of who you are and what will you be.

The newest member of the society hopes that his enthusiasm for the field of Genetics will not be limited in the four corners of the classroom but will be widely shared to the people who can benefit from his knowledge. He desires to put a remarkable memory on the gene pool as he develops himself inside the organization.