Rhyan Hurns
MIT Department: Physics
Faculty Mentor: Prof. Leonid Mirny
Research Supervisor: Edward Banigan
Undergraduate Institution: North Carolina Cental University
Website:
Biography
Rhyan Hurns is a rising fourth-year Biology student at North Carolina CentralUniversity. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, she is passionate about genetics, healthcare, and community outreach. Her two years as a Physical Therapy Technician opened her eyes to careers beyond traditional roles in healthcare. A pivotal moment in her academic journey came when she heard from a genetic counselor during a panel at her university, which deepened her interest in genetics. This passion was further solidified during her internship at MyriadGenetics, where she explored the genetic underpinnings of mental health disorders and honed her research skills. Outside of academics, Rhyan enjoys hiking, photography, journaling, and reading. Through the MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP), she hopes to strengthen her ability to communicate science effectively and contribute meaningful, real-world outcomes from her research. Ultimately, she aims to advance equitable healthcare solutions by integrating scientific discovery with accessible knowledge and community engagement.
Abstract
How CTCF and Distance Influence Microcompartment Strength in Genome Folding
Rhyan Hurns1, Leonid Mirny2, and Edward Banigan 2
1Department of Biology, North Carolina Central University
2Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The human genome must fold in 3D space to control which genes are turned on or off. Special proteins like CTCF help organize this folding, but we still don’t fully understand why they affect small areas of contact called microcompartments. This project uses computer simulations to study whether these contacts are formed by loop extrusion (a pushing force) or by attraction between regions (affinity), and how close they are to CTCF sites. By changing the distance from CTCF and the type of interaction in the model, we can see which forces create stronger contacts. Early results suggest that contacts are stronger near CTCF sites due to loop extrusion, while affinity-based interactions play a bigger role farther away. These findings help explain why the genome folds in different ways depending on location. Understanding this process is important because problems with genome folding are linked to cancer and related diseases. This study provides new knowledge about how genes are controlled through 3D structure and may help researchers find new ways to study or treat genetic disorders.