METAMORPHOSIS

Inspired by the research of Dr. Mick Bhatia of the McMaster’s Stem Cell and Cancer Research, this piece represents not only the transformation of blood cells to neural cells but also the hope this research gives to patients in the future. Dr. Mick Bhatia’s team of researchers reprogrammed blood cells into nerve cells of both the central and peripheral nervous system. This type of reprogramming will allow further research of regenerative medicine and in pain management. For this reason, I have chosen to represent this research in the form of a tree, symbolizing the potential for this research to be life changing for patients around the world.

22” x 30”

INK ON PAPER

EMILY ERNST, Artist

Biochemistry, Undergraduate

MICK BHATIA, Ph.D., Researcher

Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences