CRS Scientist Spotlight on Aryana Famili-Youth

Aryana Famili-Youth is an MSTP student in the Bulun Lab. Her research focuses on mechanisms of progesterone action in mutant MED12 uterine leiomyomas. She is also a CRS T32 Training Program trainee.

Thesis mentor: Serdar Bulun, MD

Thesis title: "Mechanisms of Progesterone Action in Mutant MED12 Uterine Leiomyomas"

What brought you to join the CRS community and what is your current position? 

In addition to having personally experienced infertility, I discovered toward the end of my second year of medical school that I was drawn to the reproductive sciences curriculum more than any other subject, both scientifically and clinically. As I became more familiar with the reproductive sciences, I realized there are many avenues to explore in understanding the fundamental processes of conception, and I developed a personal aspiration to conduct research aimed at uncovering the causes of the one-third of infertility cases deemed “unexplained” and creating more accessible strategies to improve infertility outcomes. Now, as a fourth-year MD/PhD student, I feel fortunate to bring together my long-standing fascination with tumor biology and my passion for reproductive sciences through my work in Dr. Serdar Bulun’s lab, where I study the mechanisms underlying uterine leiomyoma biology.  

Could you describe your research?

Approximately 80% of uterine leiomyomas are associated with a mutation in the gene encoding the transcriptional Mediator subunit MED12. I focus on how MED12 mutation-driven dysfunction of CDK8/19 kinase alters the biochemical state of progesterone receptor and its subsequent downstream signaling. Based on my preliminary data, we hypothesize that mut-MED12-driven CDK8/19 dysfunction leads to decreased PR degradation and increased PR action as the key driver of leiomyoma proliferation. 

What aspect of CRS do you find most valuable?

I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to engage with reproductive sciences research across both the Evanston and Chicago campuses through the CRS Reproductive Research Seminars. I also enjoy the mini library on the 10th floor and have found the department’s advanced electives to be particularly educational and enriching. One highlight was gaining hands-on experience with techniques such as embryo biopsy and cryopreservation, as well as performing intracytoplasmic sperm injection. As someone who has personally undergone IVF and hopes to pursue a career in OB/Gyn and REI, these experiences have been both deeply meaningful and intellectually inspiring. 

What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist? 

The invited speakers and trainee networking hours have been especially inspiring in helping me envision what a future career might look like, and I have greatly valued the diverse professional development opportunities offered through the Career Catalyst series. Above all, I deeply appreciate the support I receive from my lab and the department, both in carrying out my research and in having the opportunity to travel to conferences. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to young scientists starting in their journey in science? 

The two most important parts of an experiment are understanding the reasoning behind your experiment and thoroughly planning ahead on how you'll execute your protocol when you do your experiments. Preparation is most of the battle! 

What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field? 

I believe preimplantation genetic testing will continue to advance in fascinating ways that will be really helpful to patients, though I also feel its potential is often overstated by media sensationalism. 

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?

I love spending time with my husband, Elliot, and our 14.5-year-old dog, Topoli, and in my free time I enjoy cooking, baking, crocheting, and painting. I’m also very excited for the fall events in Chicago, and for the weather to get colder!