Page 8 - 2021-2022 Impact Report

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"I am trying to assess the effects of THC in cannabis on cardiovascular health, specifically on endothelial cells which line your blood cells. Additionally, we have a non-human primate model of rhesus macaques consuming edible THC during pregnancy, and I am analyzing the fetal heart and umbilical cord for any changes.
The scope of this question is incredibly important as cannabis use across all age groups has increased over time with a decrease in perception of harm. However, this has not been matched with scientific rigor and thus its effects are still contradictory and controversial.
We should care about this problem because cannabis involved imprisonment is biased against Black and Brown people. Additionally, there is a deep stigma against cannabis users who are BIPOC, therefore understanding its scientific effects is of utmost importance.
The ARCS award helps me focus on my research without the added stress of financial burden. I am also very close with my sponsors, Diana and Steve Gordon and Julie Branford, who check in on me and take
me out for meals. I am thankful for their additional mentorship. ARCS has truly changed my life."
Hillary Le Biomedical Engineering OHSU
The Branford/Gordon Scholar
given by: Julie Branford and Diana & Steve Gordon