Introduction
Holly Racine is a distinguished Assistant Professor of Biology at West Liberty University, celebrated for her dedication to research, teaching, and community involvement. In addition to her academic responsibilities, she serves as Co-Director of the Regional and Ohio County Science Fairs, reflecting her commitment to inspiring scientific curiosity in students of all ages. Racine’s journey combines rigorous academic training, innovative research, and a genuine passion for mentoring the next generation of scientists.
Early Life and Education
Holly Racine, originally from Greensburg, Pennsylvania, began her journey into biology through studies in biochemistry and biomedical sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Seton Hill University in 2012, gaining a solid foundation in the molecular mechanisms that govern living organisms. Driven by curiosity and a passion for research, she went on to complete a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences at Marshall University in 2018.
Racine’s rigorous academic training has equipped her to tackle complex biological questions with analytical precision. Her expertise in biochemistry, combined with advanced biomedical research skills, has enabled her to explore intricate physiological processes and make meaningful contributions to the field of developmental biology.
Academic Career and Teaching
At West Liberty University, Racine plays an active role in both undergraduate and graduate education. Her teaching portfolio encompasses a wide range of courses that delve into human anatomy, physiology, and comparative biological processes. Some of the courses she instructs include:
| Course Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| BIO 302/502 | Human Anatomy & Physiology I |
| BIO 328/528 | Human Anatomy & Physiology II |
| BIO 426 | Comparative Physiology |
| BIO 432/532 | Histology |
| BIO 434/534 | Endocrinology |
| BIO 473 | Human Gross Anatomy |
| BIO 458 | Reproductive Physiology |
| PA 501 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I |
| PA 502 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II |
Through these courses, Racine emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and research-driven teaching. She focuses not only on theoretical knowledge but also on the practical application of scientific concepts, ensuring that students develop a well-rounded understanding of human and comparative physiology. Her classes often feature laboratory components, allowing students to work directly with anatomical specimens, conduct physiological experiments, and practice histological techniques.
Mentorship through Undergraduate Research Programs
Holly Racine leads a lab through WLU’s TOPPER-SURE program, investigating “Thyroid-Related Mechanisms in Craniosynostosis.” Her lab provides undergraduates with hands-on, publishable-level research experience, using an avian model to explore how maternal thyroid hormone influences cranial development, while fostering mentorship and scientific inquiry.
In 2024, she was recognized as a faculty advisor for student presentations at WLU’s SURE Symposium, overseeing projects such as “Observed Unicornal Craniosynostosis in an Avian Model of Induced-Thyrotoxicosis.” These efforts underscore her lab’s contributions to cutting-edge developmental biology research while offering meaningful opportunities for student engagement.
Racine also teaches across multiple academic tracks,including Biology, Human Biology, MA/MS Biology, the WVSOM Bridge Program, and ZOO Science – highlighting her versatility and her broad impact on a diverse student body, from pre-medical students to aspiring zoologists.
Research Focus: Craniosynostosis and Thyroid-Related Mechanisms
Racine’s research focuses on craniosynostosis (CS), a developmental disorder characterized by the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures. CS is complex, with causes ranging from genetic mutations to environmental factors. Her lab is particularly interested in the role of thyroid hormones in the development of CS.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that excessive thyroid hormone, or thyrotoxicosis, during fetal development may increase the risk of CS. However, the precise molecular mechanisms linking thyroid hormone exposure to cranial suture fusion remain unclear. Racine’s research aims to address this gap by examining the molecular and morphological changes that occur in suture development following in utero thyroxine exposure.
Her lab uses animal models, particularly avian embryos, to study how thyroxine affects cranial development. This ethically manageable model allows detailed analysis of suture formation and regulation by thyroid hormones. By combining histological examinations with molecular techniques such as western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Racine and her students investigate whether thyroid hormone exposure alters cranial morphology or tissue-specific gene and protein expression.
Selected Publications
Holly Racine has contributed to numerous publications in physiology, endocrinology, and biomedical research, demonstrating her active engagement with scientific scholarship. Some of her notable publications include:
- Racine, H., Skalican, K., Hill, T., & Loughman, Z. (2022). Investigating how indigestible materials affect the accuracy of fecal corticosterone immunoassay testing in Pituophis species. *Animals, 12*(1410).
- Racine, H.L., & Serrat, M.A. (2020). Exploring the role of IGF-1 in growth plate function and its influence on bone elongation after birth. *Current Osteoporosis Reports, 18*(3), 210–227.
- Racine, H.L., Meadows, C.A., Ion, G., & Serrat, M.A. (2018). Examining how heat-induced differences in limb length affect weight bearing in the hindlimbs of mice. *Frontiers in Endocrinology, 9*, 289.
- Serrat, M.A., Schlierf, T.J., Efaw, M.L., Shuler, F.D., Gidby, J., Stanko, L.M., & Tamski, H.L. (2015). Investigating how unilateral heat exposure accelerates bone growth and extends the limbs of developing mice. *Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 33*(5), 692–698.
These publications underscore Racine’s research focus on physiological development, skeletal growth, and the effects of hormonal and environmental factors on morphology.
Mentorship and Student Engagement
Racine is deeply committed to mentorship and inspiring scientific curiosity. Her lab emphasizes hands-on experience and collaborative learning, training students in histology, western blotting, qRT-PCR, and morphological analyses. This approach equips students with the skills and mindset needed for careers in research, healthcare, and academia.
Through her mentorship, Racine helps West Liberty University strengthen its biomedical and developmental biology programs, providing students at a smaller institution with research opportunities often found only at larger universities.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Outside of her professional life, Holly Racine enjoys spending quality time with her family, hiking, traveling, and reading. Her hobbies reflect a balance between intellectual curiosity and outdoor adventure, emphasizing her commitment to personal growth and well-being. These activities offer both inspiration and relaxation, complementing the demands of her academic and research work.
Contributions to the Scientific Community
Through her research, teaching, and mentorship, Holly Racine advances the understanding of developmental biology and endocrinology. Her active engagement in undergraduate research programs and science fairs cultivates a culture of curiosity and innovation, preparing future generations to pursue scientific discovery.
By blending rigorous research with effective teaching and mentorship, Racine exemplifies the qualities of a modern academic professional. Her dual role as both researcher and educator positions her as a respected leader in the scientific and educational communities.
Conclusion
Holly Racine’s career exemplifies curiosity, dedication, and mentorship. From her early studies in biochemistry to her current role as an Assistant Professor of Biology, she has consistently pursued excellence in research, teaching, and community engagement.
Her lab’s work on thyroid-related cranial development in embryos is both innovative and impactful, bridging developmental biology, endocrinology, and craniofacial research. By mentoring students through hands-on research, Racine cultivates the next generation of scientists while contributing to meaningful scientific discoveries.
Through her professional accomplishments, pioneering research, and personal dedication, Holly Racine continues to inspire students, colleagues, and young scientists, embodying the spirit of inquiry and the transformative power of education.
FAQs About Holly Racine
Holly Racine was born in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, USA.
Holly Racine earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Seton Hill University in 2012 and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from Marshall University in 2018. Her studies focused on biochemistry and developmental biology.
Racine’s research focuses on craniosynostosis, a condition of premature cranial suture fusion, with special emphasis on the role of thyroid hormones in cranial development. Her lab studies molecular and morphological changes in animal models, particularly avian embryos, to better understand developmental mechanisms.
The TOPPER-SURE program at West Liberty University is an undergraduate research initiative. Holly Racine leads a lab in this program, providing students with hands-on research experience investigating thyroid-related mechanisms in craniosynostosis using avian models.
Holly Racine mentors students through her lab, undergraduate research programs, and her role as Co-Director of regional science fairs. She trains students in histology, molecular biology techniques such as western blotting and qRT-PCR, and fosters a culture of scientific curiosity and collaboration.
Outside of her academic career, Holly Racine enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, traveling, and reading. These activities reflect her balance between intellectual pursuits and personal well-being.
Holly Racine teaches across multiple academic tracks, including standard Biology, Human Biology, MA/MS Biology, the WVSOM Bridge Program, and ZOO Science, demonstrating her versatility and influence on a diverse range of students.
