Rajsumeet Macwan
Class of 2025
Rajsumeet Macwan lives in Brooklyn, New York. He earned a B.S. in Pharmacy from Arihant School of Pharmacy in India.
What topic are you investigating at TCOP?
I am studying the role of the tropomyosin (TPM4) gene in premalignant colon cancer. We hypothesize that overexpression of TPM4 prevents maturation of colon epithelial cells.
Did you have research experience before Touro? How did you get involved in research at TCOP?
I did not have prior experience. I got involved at TCOP by attending a seminar on research opportunities hosted by the TCOP Office of Research administration. Dr. Michael Papetti presented his research on colon cancer, and I was fascinated by the topic. So, I asked to join his team.
How did you find your topic? Who at Touro helps you with ideas and how?
My topic emerged from discussions with Dr. Papetti, from whom I acquired the skills and knowledge to conduct experiments for my project and also the ability to apply the scientific method to my research question.
Can you describe your study? What did you discover and who will it impact?
Using the Caco2 cell line derived from colon carcinoma, we studied the effects of overexpression of the TPM4 gene on differentiation. The data collected suggests that high TPM4 levels may lead to tumorigenesis. Our result could enable early diagnosis of colon cancer in patients with elevated levels of TPM4.
Have you delivered presentations at conferences or published?
We presented a poster at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research. We are preparing a manuscript for journal publication.
What are some of the most valuable research skills you have learned (and are learning) at Touro?
How to conduct a literature search and critically evaluate research. This helped me identify gaps in the literature and form a clear and testable research question and hypothesis. I learned how to use sterile techniques to perform cell culture experiments and to investigate the effects of gene overexpression. Finally, I learned how to design primers for polymerase chain reactions using genome databases. These skills have prepared me well for my future career in pharmacy and healthcare.
Why is it important for pharmacy students to do research?
It helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for future practice. By exposing pharmacy students to the latest scientific knowledge and innovations in the field, research prepares students to become lifelong learners and leaders. Overall, research is valuable and rewarding and can help students achieve their goals.
What is your ultimate career goal, and how has TCOP helped prepare you?
My goal is to complete two years of residency. For the second year, I am interested in pursuing either cardiology or oncology. TCOP has outstanding professors who have provided me with the most current information and supported me in achieving my goals.
