Kayli Woodward, a second-year veterinary student at Texas A&M University from Frisco, Texas, used her summer to pursue groundbreaking research in equine sports, marking a significant personal development in veterinary medicine. With minimal prior research experience, Woodward enrolled in the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Scientist Research Training Program, designed for DVM students to work alongside faculty mentors. This program provided her with an opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and gain practical knowledge.
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She selected Dr. Sarah White-Springer, the Link Endowed Chair in Equine Science and associate professor, as her mentor. Having previously taught Woodward, White-Springer guided her in investigating the chronic use of β-2 agonists in horses. These drugs, typically used as bronchodilators, are sometimes misused as performance enhancers due to their effects on muscle composition. Their research aims to identify a biomarker indicating long-term use of newer β-2 agonists, potentially leading to enhanced drug-testing protocols for equine competitions.
Woodward expressed a sense of fulfillment in contributing to a project that aims to protect the welfare of horses. The research provided her with an opportunity to grapple with uncertainties and understand the scientific process deeply. "Dr. White taught me how to pivot, analyze the variables and potential hiccups, and work out a new approach without getting discouraged," Woodward stated, highlighting the confidence she gained in her scientific comprehension.
Her summer experience not only reshaped her understanding of research but also deepened her appreciation for the foundational work behind established veterinary practices. Looking ahead, Woodward hopes her research will lead to a new drug test capable of detecting novel β-2 agonist use in equine athletes.
The Veterinary Medical Scientist Research Training Program is hosted by the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, allowing DVM students to select faculty mentors and conduct hands-on research, culminating in a presentation at a national symposium.