Researcher Spotlight: Juline Deppen

2021 Research Day Best Oral Presentation – Basic Science Research

What is your professional background?
I received my bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from the University of South Carolina. I have been completing my PhD in biomedical engineering in the joint Emory/Georgia Tech program since 2016.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I work in the Division of Cardiology in the lab of Rebecca Levit.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My PhD thesis research project involves the creation of a preclinical large animal platform for efficacy assessment of advanced therapies for peripheral artery disease (PAD) to assess the vascular- and muscle-specific benefits of alginate-encapsulated mesenchymal stromal cells (eMSCs) on a human scale. Creation and quantitative characterization of this platform that includes a novel model of durable hind limb ischemia and imaging of cellular therapies could allow for more robust testing and optimization of many different therapeutic approaches, ultimately increasing bench-to-bedside success. Additionally, understanding the benefits of eMSCs in porcine limb ischemia can provide evidence of their ability to improve blood flow, muscle health, and limb function in clinical PAD, ultimately improving patient quality-of-life and/or preventing limb amputation.  

What do you like most about Emory?
I enjoy the focus on collaborative science and the opportunity as a basic science researcher to learn from and form connections with clinicians and clinical researchers.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
I don’t watch many movies, but my favorite TV show lately has been “The Good Place.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy cooking, taking group fitness classes, doing puzzles, and seeing live theater.

What is a fun fact about you?
I performed (as part of a choir) at Carnegie Hall as a junior in high school.