First person – Gustavo Gavrel Pacheco Free

Gustavo Gavrel Pacheco

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

Groups of cells moving together during processes such as organ formation or cancer metastasis must integrate cues from their surrounding physical environment to adapt their metabolism for efficient migration to other regions of the body. In the past 25 years, many great tools for assaying live metabolism (e.g. mitochondrial dyes and extracellular flux analysis) have been introduced. Our studies used the Xenopus laevis embryo to introduce some significant careful optimization for carrying out these experiments (e.g. temperature control and reducing absorption of dyes by yolk platelets). We found that mitochondrial membrane potential is spatially regulated in collectively migrating tissue by integrin adhesion and signaling in leader row cells. We hope our progress in using the Xenopus laevis model for assaying live metabolism will encourage more groups to explore the use of this developmental system for their studies.

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

I was especially excited by our results demonstrating that the integrin-dependent increase in mitochondrial metabolism of Xenopus laevis mesendoderm cells is generalizable and conserved in mammalian cells.

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

We were motivated to submit our article to Journal of Cell Science for potential inclusion in the Special Issue on Cell Biology of Mitochondria. As the DeSimone lab has a traditional focus on cell migration and adhesion, we were encouraged by the strong background in these areas represented by the expert editorial board.

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

For this project, I am especially grateful to Kenneth M. Yamada, MD, PhD. In addition to serving as my post-baccalaureate fellowship mentor and introducing me to the field of cell migration and adhesion, he has continued to provide great support and guidance throughout my graduate studies, helping me tackle challenging questions, emphasizing the importance of advancing knowledge for the sake of understanding regardless of recognition, and fostering a welcoming lab culture.

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?

I am fortunate to be a native son of Bethesda, Maryland, where the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is headquartered, which enabled me to have interactions at a young age with biomedical scientists at the NIH connected to my family and friends. I developed an appreciation and awe for the application of the scientific method to improving human health through the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease, which has informed my pursuit of a career as a physician-scientist.

Who are your role models in science? Why?

One of my role models in science is Katalin Karikó, for her determination and resolve to advance basic mechanistic studies on in vitro-transcribed messenger RNA for protein replacement therapy despite limited support from the scientific community.

What's next for you?

I am an MD/PhD student. Therefore, I am returning to medical school to complete my clinical training. However, I am looking forward to delving further into the role of cell migration and adhesion in pathological contexts during my post-doctoral period.

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

My parents are from Mexico, and I consider Mexico to be a second home, having spent every summer in Mexico City and Hidalgo up until age 15.