First person – Kyoung-Min Choi

Kyoung-Min Choi

How would you explain the main findings of your paper in lay terms?

In the brain, cells communicate with each other using biomolecules, such as proteins, lipids, DNA and RNA. One type of RNA, called microRNA, plays crucial roles in communication between two different cell types in the brain, oligodendrocytes and neurons. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which oligodendrocytes release microRNAs to neurons and how uncontrolled release of a microRNA called let-7b impacts neuronal inflammation, leading to degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

Were there any specific challenges associated with this project? If so, how did you overcome them?

Methods for purification of extracellular vesicles (EVs) differ across many laboratories, sometimes resulting in the detection of non-EV proteins, such as Argonaute proteins, that bind to microRNAs. During the period of revision and resubmission of this study, we established a new collaboration with a group at the University of Oklahoma and combined two different procedures into a consensus method for more efficient and stringent EV purification.

When doing the research, did you have a particular result or ‘eureka’ moment that has stuck with you?

Mature microRNAs are known to bind exclusively to Argonaute family proteins. However, our protein array experiments uncovered various additional RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that directly bind to multiple mature miRNAs. This finding was so striking to us that we were eager to study the function of the mature miRNA-binding proteins that we isolated from the protein array.

Why did you choose Journal of Cell Science for your paper?

We expected that Journal of Cell Science (JCS), with its high-quality peer review process, would enhance the academic value and level of our research. The guidance and feedback we received significantly contributed to improving the completeness of our manuscript.

Have you had any significant mentors who have helped you beyond supervision in the lab? How was their guidance special?

My PI Dr Yoon has inspired me every day and has helped me determine the direction and overcome the challenges of my research. Our lab manager also supported me in conducting experiments and provided me with excellent encouragement. This study was completed through the collaborative efforts of all the authors from 17 different institutions. I would like to share this accomplishment with all the authors, who worked hard together.

What motivated you to pursue a career in science, and what have been the most interesting moments on the path that led you to where you are now?

Although my first publication was a small achievement, I will never forget the moment when other researchers cited it for the first time. I am confident that my research contributes to the field of cancer biology and therapy.

What's next for you?

I am currently studying the functions of RBPs and noncoding RNAs in cellular metabolism and human diseases. During my postdoctoral period, I am gaining a deeper understanding of and insights into RNA biology and acquiring the best training for my professional development. After 3 years, my goal is to lead a small research group, funded by the South Korean government, for my future studies on cancer metabolism.

Tell us something interesting about yourself that wouldn't be on your CV

Ever since I came to the US, I've been cooking Korean food for all three meals, so my cooking skills are getting better. Soon, I will try cooking food from other countries too.