Whether it’s solving the world’s biggest problems or investigating the potential of novel discoveries, researchers at UCF are on the edge scientific breakthroughs that aim to make an impact. Through the Research in 60 Seconds series, student and faculty researchers condense their complex studies into bite-sized summaries so you can know how and why Knights plan to improve our world.

Name: Melanie Coathup
Position(s): Professor of medicine and lead of the Biionix Cluster

Why are you interested in this research?
Exposure to ionizing radiation can affect so many people from different walks of life such as cancer survivors to the those in the military to astronauts and our plans for deep space exploration. From the physics, chemistry and biological aspects of it, it’s an area where there’s still so much to learn and understand, and if we can figure out a way to prevent the harm and injury it can cause, it will positively impact so many lives.

Who inspires you to conduct your research?
The enthusiasm and hard work of my postdocs and students in the lab plays a huge part in this. But also, everyone I see who chooses to keep going after a setback. I think every job or ambition comes with its challenges and despite how it may sometimes seem, the path forward isn’t always so smooth. I’m inspired to conduct this research through remembering past trailblazers such as Marie Curie, as well as directly by those I see who keep on striving despite difficulties — particularly those who do it with grace and generosity to others.

How does UCF empower you to do your research?
UCF is a really great place to work and the resources and support that I’ve received from so many individuals in the various departments and services has been so critical in progressing the day-to-day aspects of the research.

What major grants and honors have you earned to support your research?
To date, this research has been supported by NASA, the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. National Science Foundation.

Why is this research important?
Exposure to ionizing radiation can be highly damaging to the body. Even if a localized area of the body is exposed, it can cause systemic injury and significant ill health. The development of a radioprotective agent would be helpful for cancer survivors undergoing radiotherapy and to warfighters or civilians in anticipation of radiation exposure. However, at the moment, there are no effective FDA-approved medications that can be given either before or indeed after accidental exposure to high-doses of radiation. Finding such countermeasures could help prevent injury and potentially, death due to radiation.