Ronald E. McNair Program

Keena Meeks

Name: Keena Aisha Meeks
School: Rust College
Major: Biology
Mentor: Dr. Stephen D’Surney & Mr. Michael Smith
Expected Graduation Date: April 2008
Organizations & Honors:

President’s List
Deans List
Orientation Workshop Leader
ETS Tutor
Student Support Services
Alpha Kappa Mu National Honors Society, Treasurer
President of Rust College Royal Scholars Honors Program
Ronald McNair Scholar

E-MAIL: keena.a.meeks@gmail.com

COMMENTS:
The McNair Program has truly been a great experience and a blessing to me. Not only have I learned the proper procedures and preparations for graduate school admission, but I gained friendships, wisdom, and more knowledge that will last a lifetime. I truly appreciate having the opportunity to work with Dr. Cole and Ms. Hereford. I would like to give special thanks to my mentors Dr. D’Surney and Mr. Smith for being such excellent and patient people. This research program/internship has been such a positive impact on my life.

ABSTRACT

Comparative Analysis of Early Embryonic responses of Zebrafish to Benzo(a)Pyrene, Diesel Particulate Matter, and Retinoic Acid

Benzo(a)pyrene and diesel particulate matter are two of the most prevalent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that cause detrimental effects to aquatic environments. These polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are also known human mutagens and probable carcinogens. Retinoic acid is the vitamin A derivative that is instrumental in regulating vertebrate formation as well as functioning in the growth of bones and maintenance of epithelium. When too much retinoic acid is used, very harmful effects occur in embryo development. In this study, heart rate, hatching success, spinal abnormalities, and pericardial edema were examined in zebra fish embryos at 48, 60, 72, and 96 hours post fertilization, after they were exposed to benzo(a)pyrene, diesel particulate matter, and retinoic acid.