UROP Leader Information Submission: Submission #207

First Name: Adria 
Last Name: Morales Santiago
Full name as you would like it to appear on the website: Adria Morales Santiago
Preferred Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown, State, and Country (ex: Tallahassee, FL, USA): Camajuaní, Villa Clara, Cuba 
FSU email : alm22w@fsu.edu 
Please check this box if you are willing to be contacted by students interested in UROP: No
LinkedIn URL (optional): {Empty}
Major(s): Biological Science
Minor(s): Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Sciences 
Graduation Semester and Year (ex: Fall, 2022): Spring 2027
What is your current research focus?:
My research focuses on the therapeutic effects of bioactive peptides, particularly the sturgeon-derived peptide LLLE (Leu-Leu-Leu-Glu), in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). I investigate how LLLE alleviates colitis by influencing gut microbiota composition, fecal metabolites, and inflammatory markers, using a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. My work integrates microbiology, immunology, and metabolomics to uncover innovative approaches to treating chronic gastrointestinal disorders.

Are there any other research related activities you participate(d) in?:
Alongside my current research endeavors, I have contributed to a project centered on conducting a comprehensive literature review to examine the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) on spatial navigation. This work delved into understanding how these neurodegenerative conditions disrupt critical cognitive functions such as orientation, memory, and the ability to navigate within one’s environment.

Answer one of the following two questions about being a UROP Leader or your UROP background. : How has UROP impacted your time at FSU?
Please answer the question you selected above in the area provided.:
Before applying to UROP, I had already been involved in research and thoroughly enjoyed my experience in the lab. It was there that I first discovered how exciting and meaningful scientific exploration could be. I was deeply engaged in the work and eager to learn more, but I also wanted to grow further and connect with others who shared my passion. Through UROP, I found more opportunities to collaborate, ask questions, and contribute to something important. Being surrounded by driven peers and supported by mentors helped me grow not only as a researcher but also as a student.

Please list any other hobbies or interests you would like to share:
I am a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and a member of the Medical Response Unit (MRU) on campus. Outside of my academic and professional commitments, I enjoy reading, experimenting with new recipes, attending FSU sports events, and spending time with friends and family. 

Headshot: https://cre.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/urop_leaders_information/19211/FullSizeRender%20%282%29_0.jpeg
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2025Year2025: 2025
Approved: No
Update URL UROP Leaders: https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=BU8OEQpeC2g_2KTiPrcdsKaNOqLnBOwfmitgl9Ye-E0
Years as a UROP Leader: 2025-2026