Alec Whited, a 2025 master’s graduate in Biology from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), is pioneering research that could revolutionize treatments for autoimmune diseases and enhance wound healing. While working in the Ghose Lab at UTA, Whited discovered a previously unknown cellular pathway that enhances the removal of dying cells, a finding recently published in Genetics, a leading journal in the field.
“Similar to taking your garbage out on trash day, living things must also get rid of their unwanted waste, whether it’s digested food or dead cells that have fulfilled their purpose,” explained Whited, now a research assistant at UT Southwestern. “This work helps us understand a specific step in the process of clearing those cells that have completed their job and are no longer needed. When this process is interrupted or does not work, it can cause major issues for the organism.”
Understanding Cellular Waste Management
The discovery made by Whited and his co-author, Aladin Elkhalil, a fourth-year doctoral student at UTA, sheds light on a critical biological process. The study identifies a new pathway that organisms use to efficiently remove dying cells, a process crucial for maintaining cellular health and preventing disease.
“It’s a tremendous honor. Even before my research career truly began, I had heard of this prestigious journal, and to now be part of it feels surreal,” Whited shared regarding the publication in Genetics. “It’s a recognition not just of my individual work, but of the incredible support I’ve received from mentors and colleagues.”
Linking Dead Cell Clearance to Autoimmune Diseases
Whited’s research highlights the importance of clearing dead cells to prevent inflammation, a common precursor to autoimmune diseases. “Inflammation can be caused by many factors, and one of them is the failure to clear dead cells properly,” Whited noted. “If these dead cells aren’t cleared out efficiently, the body may mistakenly interpret these molecules as threats and launch an immune response. This can lead to chronic inflammation and contribute to autoimmune diseases.”
Implications for Wound Healing
The study also explores the potential impact on wound healing. One of the genes studied is linked to cell-to-cell fusion, a key process in tissue repair. “By better understanding the genetic mechanisms behind this, we hope to identify additional genes that could play a role in improving wound healing,” Whited explained. This research could pave the way for new treatments for chronic wounds, although further studies are necessary to fully comprehend the genetic interplay involved.
Fostering Scientific Growth at UTA
Whited’s journey at UTA exemplifies the university’s commitment to fostering scientific inquiry and innovation. “The Department of Biology has been incredibly supportive,” Whited remarked. “There’s a collaborative spirit that drives everyone to push the boundaries of what we know. This mindset fosters not only academic growth but also a sense of belonging in the broader scientific community.”
“Ultimately, I believe this is the core goal of science: to make meaningful contributions that help us understand the world around us and leave a lasting impact on the field,” Whited said, emphasizing the supportive environment at UTA.
This significant research was supported by The Cancer Prevention Research Institute of Texas (RR100091) and the National Institutes of Health–National Institute of General Medical Sciences (R35GM142489).
About The University of Texas at Arlington
Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2025, The University of Texas at Arlington is a prominent public research university located in the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With over 42,700 students, UTA is the second-largest institution in the University of Texas System, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Recognized as a Carnegie R-1 university, UTA is among the top 5% of institutions nationwide for research activity. The university and its 280,000 alumni contribute an annual economic impact of $28.8 billion to the state. UTA has been awarded the Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation from the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities and is lauded for its focus on student access and success, key drivers of economic growth.
