Hendrickson's Research Lab

Dr. Hendrickson’s research focuses on the anticancer and antibacterial effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). She is aiming to bridge ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding. Beginning in 2019, this endeavor delves into the intricate molecular mechanisms behind the dandelion's anticancer and antibacterial properties, uncovering its therapeutic potential often overlooked in common perceptions. Through meticulous laboratory investigations, Dr. Hendrickson's team has revealed the plant's remarkable effects on DNA repair genes and its ability to induce programmed cell death in cancer cells. Beyond laboratory findings, the research extends into phytochemical analysis to identify key constituents responsible for observed effects, with the ultimate goal of advancing anticancer therapeutics and combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Dr. Hendrickson's philosophy emphasizes the involvement of undergraduate students at every stage of the scientific journey, fostering a transformative learning environment that cultivates inquiry, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Undergraduate students actively contribute to research projects, presenting their findings at scientific conferences and publishing them in peer reviewed journals. Dr. Hendrickson's dedication to incorporating research into teaching extends to cell biology, cancer biology and microbiology courses, inspiring students with diverse backgrounds to explore the exciting realm of scientific inquiry and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in the field.

Award Winning Poster Presentations

1. Nguyen. A, Worley. A, Nguyen. K, Vaughan. M, Nail. J, Hendrickson. C (2024). Dandelion Seed Extract Battels Cancer Cells by Halting their Proliferation and Altering DNA Repair Genes. Poster presentation at the Oklahoma EPSCOR Research Day at the Capitol, State Capitol of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK. 
   *Secured third place among Oklahoma regional and tribal universities. 
    
2. Nguyen. K, Cardoza. K, Maarouf. F, Brocker. C, Khader. S, Bao. C, Tillett. M, Wells. M, Whitten. S, Nguyen. A, Worley. A, Kotturi, H, Nail. J, Hendrickson. C (2024) The Healing Power of Dandelions: Exploring Antibacterial Properties of Dandelion Seed Extract. Poster Presentation at Undergraduate Research Day, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City, OK.
   *Secured first place and grand prize in the undergraduate poster presentation. 
    
3. Nguyen. A, Worley. A, Vaughan. M, Nail. J, Hendrickson. C (2023). Dandelion Seed Extract Inhibits HeLa Cell Proliferation by Inducing DNA Damage and Altering DNA Repair Genes Expression. Poster Presentation at END2Cancer Conference, OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma City, OK.
   *Secured first place in the undergraduate poster presentation. 
    
4. Bao. C, Nguyen. A, Nguyen. K, Wells. M, Worley. A, Hendrickson. C (2022) Exploring the Potential of Aqueous Dandelion Extract: A Comparative Study of Antimicrobial and Anticancer Properties. Poster Presentation at Undergraduate Research Day, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City, OK.
   *Secured first place and grand prize in the undergraduate poster presentation. 
    
5. McBride. K, Ahsan. M, Vaughan. M.B, Hendrickson C.G. (2021) Anti-Cancer Effects of Dandelion’s Extract on Cervical Cancer Cells. Poster presentation at the 26th annual Oklahoma EPSCOR Research Day at the Capitol, Virtual event, Oklahoma City, OK. 
   *Secured first place among Oklahoma regional and tribal universities. 
    
6. Agu C.C., Wiens B., DeCelle E., Vaughan M.B., and Hendrickson C.G. (2019) Anti-proliferation Effect of Dandelion’s Extract on HeLa Cells. Poster presentation at Fall Technical Meeting of Oklahoma Academy of Science at UCO, Edmond, OK.
   *Secured outstanding undergraduate poster presentation.