Which came first, the egg-fortifying project or the clinical
rotation? For Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Science (HNFAS) alumnus Nobuhisa
Morimoto, there’s no question. As he explains, his studies and research at
CTAHR—including the aforementioned project to boost the omega-3 fatty acid
content of chicken eggs—were integral in preparing him for his next step,
medical training at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University.
After the required med school core classes in his first year, Nobu
chose nephrology for his research project in his second year, learning genetics
and molecular biology techniques related to the kidneys. These included Western
blotting (an analytical technique used to detect proteins), promoter assays,
and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction—techniques, he reflects,
that he was well prepared to master thanks to his research experiences at
CTAHR. Specifically, he says, his studies with Drs. Diane Dooley, Joannie
Dobbs, and Alan Titchenal of HNFAS and Harry Ako of Molecular Biosciences and
Bioengineering prepared him for this project and his new training.
Dr. Ako remembers Nobu’s work in his lab, which he also sees as
important to his former student’s future success in medical school and as a
doctor. “This lab really encourages free and creative thought,” he explains,
qualities of mind that are in demand among med school applicants and invaluable
for physicians.
As he moves closer to doctorhood, Nobu also appreciates the
learning he did outside the lab and the classroom at the college. “I really
feel that my experiences in CTAHR are helping me in many ways,” he confirms. “The
service projects I did as a scholarship recipient remind me of the importance
of giving back to the community and motivate me to study harder. It was so
fortunate that I met many individuals in CTAHR who really cared about students.
Now I want to study harder to become a proficient physician who can provide the
best care for each patient I see.”
Nor was it all work and no play for Nobu—attendees of the CTAHR
Centennial Celebration may recall his memorable Michael Jackson impersonation.
And given a choice between two equally proficient doctors, who wouldn’t choose
the one who could also moonwalk?
