【Beijing】Neuro-Behavioral Study of Central Nervous System-Related Diseases

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the most common degenerative diseases of the nervous system that occur in the elderly. The main clinical manifestations of PD are progressive memory impairment and other neuropsychiatric symptoms, which can have a severe impact on the social, life and work life of the patient.

The program invites front-line scientists from national research institutes and universities in the field of neuro-behavioral sciences to lead students in learning the basics of neurobiology, as well as professional animal models and advanced instrumentation.

I gained a lot from this program. Firstly, I have learned about the importance of teamwork. One person cannot complete many experiments, such as suspension and hanging rods. It is impossible to catch mice and record data simultaneously without teammates. The final presentation and the rigor in conducting experiments were also crucial. During the Elisa test, we dropped the plate multiple times, leading to inaccurate results that can also be caused by subjective factors in counting the mice's exploration times. Besides, the mistake setting of the first or the second gear would also lead to serious errors when using a pipette.
We dropped the plate multiple times during the ELISA experiment, leading to inaccurate results. In the novel object recognition test, subjective factors in counting the mice's exploration times caused discrepancies in the results. Additionally, I learned how to use a pipette properly. Initially, not distinguishing between the first and second gear led to significant errors. This experience gave me further insight into the tasks I will undertake in my future study abroad program.
—— Beijing Luhe International Education Academy, Student Peng
In this XLAB program, I experienced many experiments that significantly broadened my horizons and taught me much knowledge in fields I had never been exposed to. Among them, what left me the deepest impression is the Elisa test. We first learned the principle of Elisa, which I found somewhat confusing then. After class, I looked up a lot of information and took many notes. When we discovered erroneous data, I learned to search online for possible causes of errors and to compare these with our experimental process. Despite difficulties, I still felt a sense of achievement in scientific research. I also learned how to use experimental tools correctly and process data using Excel when doing mouse behavior experiments. Before coming to XLAB, my target major was biomedicine. This experience deepened my understanding of theoretical knowledge and gave me a practical insight into the lives of scientists I greatly admire and aspire to emulate. Thus, biomedicine has been an unwavering companion and a pursuit in my future study and career.
—— Ealing International School, Student Li
I had only learned theoretical knowledge before in school. This is my first time experiencing the allure of chemical reactions. Our instructors carefully explained the experiments, and we were guided step-by-step through them, which made the process very clear. It was a rare and vivid lesson, as we had the unique opportunity to catch mice, dissect them, and test serum protein levels—experiences we couldn't have had elsewhere. My target major is biochemistry, focusing on medicine, which aligns perfectly with our experiments. This experience gave me early exposure to the entire experimental process, making it very fulfilling. Although there were moments of monotony, the decisive goal orientation of the experiments made me understand what I was doing and what results I aimed to achieve. My progress from my first attempt at catching mice to confidently placing them in a box is significant. Moving from theory to practice has dramatically increased my interest in biochemistry.
—— Hefei No. 1 High School, Student Wu
It is a perfect experimental program organized by ASDAN China, no matter the daily experiments or the group discussion and analysis. Thanks to our instructors, teammates, and the program leader for creating a unique opportunity to meet in Beijing. We learned knowledge, explored exciting topics in biology, made good friends, and broadened our horizons, which have great value and significance for my future in-depth research in the biological field. I hope to participate in English-only research programs and engage in cutting-edge scientific discussions in international courses.
—— Shanghai United International School, Wanyuan Campus, Student Li