Mutual Credit recognition programme UTAR- NYCU, testimonial by Mr Loh Jit Kai Master of Medical Science candidate

I am Loh Jit Kai, a Master student under the Mutual Credit Recognition programme of University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR, Malaysia) with National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU, Taiwan). I am currently conducting my research project in the area of stem cell and cancer under the supervision of my main supervisor Prof. Dr. Alan Ong Han Kiat and co- supervisor Emeritus Prof. Dr. Cheong Soon Keng from UTAR and external supervisor Prof. Dr. Chiou Shih Hwa together with assistance from Dr Lotus Wang Mong Lien from NYCU. The project consists of induced mesenchymal stem cell (iMSC) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) with the aim of seeing how stroma environment will affect the growth of NSCLC with iMSC as the stroma model. Based on the recent report from GLOBACON, lung cancer is still considered the deadliest in year 2020. The aim of the project is to find alternative ways to tackle cancer with the use of iMSC as a safer cell therapy approach compared to mainstream radiotherapy or chemotherapy that have potential side effects and risk of relapse. We hope to be able to identify the key players in releasing factors of the stroma environment that will affect cancer progression.

Right: A picture of mine conducting the Western Blot experiment.


What I’ve learned so far in both UTAR and NYCU?

In UTAR, I have been able to learn all the necessary fundamental knowledge to maintain and differentiation stem cells/ iPSC/ cancer in a short 6 months’ time despite interruption from CoV- 19. In NYCU, I continued to establish iMSC differentiation from iPSC, then further conduct analysis and assay with the resources here. I can utilize the facilities (Confocal Microscope, Flow cytometry and Single-Cell processing facilities and sequencing) with ease as I have prior knowledge and experience, I have gathered in UTAR. I had the opportunity to also carry out in- depth analysis using next generation sequencing and organoid technology together with new knowledge to learn from colleagues and friends in NYCU. With adequate resources in NYCU, I am also able to conduct experiments and assays, that allows me to explore and expose myself to more conditions and treatment for my project so that I can have a more detailed analysis on how the stroma environment can really affect the NSCLC. This 1-year experience in both UTAR and NYCU has allowed me to conduct more in-depth research as well as be able to experience two research cultures which is very enriching and fulfilling.

Top Left: Took picture with Dr Lotus Wang Mong Lien from NYCU

Top Right: Took picture with my external co-supervisor, Prof Dr Chiou Shih Hwa from NYCU

Bottom: View of culture room