Anika James
PhD Candidate in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Specializing in Cellular and Developmental Biology with a strong foundation in Cancer Biology research at the University of Kansas
Investigating nuclear APC regulation of MUC2 expression, mucus barrier integrity, and colonic inflammation
About Me
I am a PhD candidate in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Kansas specializing in Cellular and Developmental Biology with a strong foundation in Cancer Biology research. My research focuses on the role of nuclear APC in regulating MUC2 expression, mucus barrier integrity, and mitigation of colonic inflammation.
Through my work, I aim to elucidate the molecular pathways connecting APC to intestinal homeostasis, inflammation, and gastrointestinal cancer, while exploring microbiome contributions to inflammatory bowel disease and sex-specific differences in disease susceptibility.
Professional Memberships
- AACR Associate Member (2024-Present)
- NSLS Member (2019-Present)
- ASBMB Student Member (2018-2020)
Education
PhD in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
University of Kansas
Aug 2020 – Present
B.S. in Biology
Minor in Chemistry
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Aug 2016 – May 2020
Current Research
My doctoral research in the Neufeld Lab at the University of Kansas investigates the complex roles of nuclear APC in intestinal health and disease.
APC and MUC2 Transcription
Dissecting the mechanisms of nuclear APC control of MUC2 transcription and its impact on mucus barrier integrity.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Exploring microbiome contributions to IBD and how sex-specific differences may influence disease susceptibility.
Gastrointestinal Cancer
Elucidating molecular pathways linking APC regulation to intestinal homeostasis and inflammation.
Publications
Peer-Reviewed Publications
Manuscripts in Progress
James, A., Washington, K., & Neufeld, K. L. Nuclear APC Couples Epithelial NF-κB Control to Mucin Homeostasis and Sex-Specific Inflammatory Outcomes. (manuscript in progress)
James, A., Washington, K., & Neufeld, K. L. APC-Dependent Microbiome Remodeling Underlies Helicobacter-Mediated Protection from Colitis. (manuscript in progress)
Experience & Skills
Research Experience
Graduate Research Assistant
Neufeld Lab, University of Kansas
Aug 2020 – Present
- • Dissected nuclear APC control of MUC2 transcription and mucus barrier integrity; examined downstream pathways connecting APC to intestinal homeostasis and inflammation
- • Explored microbiome contributions to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and how sex-specific differences influence disease susceptibility
- • Elucidated molecular pathways linking APC regulation to intestinal homeostasis and inflammation, with implications for gastrointestinal cancer
- • Presented findings at national and local conferences, contributing to collaborative research discussions of APC's role in colon cancer
Undergraduate Researcher
Zajdowicz Lab, MSU Denver
Aug 2019 – May 2020
Studied effects of Neisseria lactamica on Streptococcus mutans oral biofilm formation; presented a poster at a national conference.
Undergraduate Researcher
Bonham Lab, MSU Denver
Aug 2018 – Aug 2019
Developed electrochemical biosensor approaches for sensitive serologic detection of pathogenic Mycoplasma; reported findings at ASBMB venues.
Teaching & Leadership
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Kansas
Spring 2022 – Fall 2023
- • BIOL 152 (Principles of Organismal Biology) – Spring 2022
- • BIOL 688 (The Molecular Biology of Cancer) – Fall 2023
Project Lead, Biology Study Room
University of Kansas
Fall 2021
Directed the comprehensive redesign of BioCenter for Collaborative Learning (BCCL), developing detailed spatial layouts and procurement plans for instructional equipment and collaborative furnishings.
Technical Skills
Laboratory Techniques
Imaging & Histology
Animal Research
Analysis & Software
Achievements & Awards
FASEB Trainee Award
Outstanding Poster Presentation
Fall 2022
Dean's Doctoral Fellowship
Fully Funded
Fall 2020–Spring 2021; Fall 2022–Spring 2023
KUCC Travel Award
University of Kansas Cancer Center
November 2021
Certificate of Recognition
ASBMB Undergraduate Poster Competition
April 2019
Research Grants
Undergraduate Research Mini-Grants, Dean & Provost Scholarship, CO-WY AMP Funding
2017–2019
Selected Presentations
Research presentations at national and regional conferences
National Conferences
- • AACR Annual Meeting 2025 – Chicago, IL (Poster)
- • FASEB GI Epithelium Conference – Steamboat Springs, CO (Poster)
- • FASEB "Gastrointestinal Tract XX" – Steamboat Springs, CO (Poster)
Regional & Institutional
- • 23rd Annual K-INBRE Symposium – Kansas City, MO (Poster)
- • Biology Senior Seminar, Baker University – Baldwin City, KS (Oral)
- • University of Kansas Cancer Center Research Symposium – Kansas City, KS (Oral)
- • KUCC Research Week – Multiple presentations (2022-2024)
- • Molecular Biosciences Symposium – University of Kansas (Multiple years)
Latest Research Title: "Nuclear APC Maintains Colon Homeostasis and Mitigates Inflammation"
Get in Touch
I am always open to discussing new research, collaborations, or opportunities. Please feel free to reach out.
References
Dr. Kristi Neufeld
Frank B. Tyler Professor of Cancer Research
Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas
klneuf@ku.edu