From neonatal research to environmental advocacy, BMSc student creates positive change
By Raeesa Valani
Mehrsa Feizi wants to determine the cause of a devastating condition that is life-threatening for babies.
The third-year student in the Bachelor of Medical Sciences program at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry is focussing on understanding the factors triggering inflammation in the intestines of newborns, leading to the disease known as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The disease can be deadly for up to 50 per cent of newborns who develop it.
“The fact that the standard of care for such a devastating condition has not changed much for decades blew my mind,” she said. “I felt like, ‘Wow, this would be great to contribute to.’”
Feizi’s research, done while interning for two summers in Dr. Agostino Pierro’s laboratory at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, gave her the opportunity to study the disease processes in mice models to learn how it affected the small intestine. This helped her understand how similar processes might happen in infants.
This understanding is vital for finding treatments, as it forms the basis for developing interventions that can control or change the specific processes involved in the disease.
“The goal is to find ways to help infants in the future, enhancing their health and nurturing their overall well-being,” said Feizi.
Her lab experiences helped Feizi evolve into an independent learner, acquiring skills in hands-on wet lab techniques, such as fluorescent staining and genotyping.
But it was the heartbreaking impact of NEC on patients and families that motivated Feizi to contribute to improving the situation through her research.
“Thinking that the work I do in research could potentially help these patients and their parents is the most rewarding and heartwarming thought.”
“The fact that the standard of care for such a devastating condition has not changed for decades pretty much blew my mind. I felt like, ‘Wow, this would be great to contribute to.’”
- Mehrsa Feizi
A driving force behind Western’s bike share program
Feizi’s passion for positive change is exhibited in other initiatives.
She is also a vice president on EnviroUSC at Western University, and is dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability at Western. She recognizes the significance of environmental sustainability and has led campus initiatives, including the bike share program, which promotes climate justice at Western.
“My passion for advancing these initiatives stems from the growing student population at Western,” she said. “Students often voice concerns about the inadequacy of London’s public transportation service in meeting their transportation needs. They often experience difficulties such as being stranded at bus stations and having to deal with considerable distances. It’s a tangible issue affecting our community, and I am driven to address these challenges and enhance accessibility for all.”
In addition to her research and advocacy roles, Feizi actively contributes to the academic community. As the biochemistry department representative with the Science Students’ Council, she provides support and guidance to students navigating the intricacies of biochemistry. Her involvement also extends to collaborating with professors to organize events and create comprehensive guides for students interested in pursuing biochemistry at Western.
Feizi’s academic endeavors, from neonatal research to environmental advocacy and academic mentorship, showcase her commitment to making a positive impact. With aspirations to pursue a medical degree and lessen the environmental impact of the health-care system, she aims to continue to make meaningful contributions to both the scientific and environmental landscapes.
