Lazaro “Laz” Castano in Yan Li’s lab in the Interdisciplinary Research and Commercialization Building (IRCB) in Innovation Park in Tallahassee, Florida on October 17, 2025. (Scott Holstein/FAMU-FSU College of Engineering)
Lazaro “Laz” Castano, a biomedical engineering undergraduate in the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, is making significant strides in cancer research through his honors thesis on targeted drug delivery.
Originally from Cuba and raised in Naples, Florida, Castano chose Florida State University for its history and proximity to home while pursuing his passion for applying engineering to healthcare challenges.
“I wanted to learn how things work and apply that knowledge to help people,” he said, describing the mission that drives his academic and research pursuits.
Castano recently received the Bess H. Ward Honors Thesis Award, which supports research or creative projects completed as part of the Honors in the Major Program at Florida State University.
Targeting Cancer Cells with Engineered Extracellular Vesicles
“Cancer is a disease that affects millions of families every year,” Castano said. “A major obstacle to cancer treatment is the similarity of cancer cells and healthy cells. Most therapies which kill cancer cells also damage healthy cells. In my Honors in the Major project, I’m hoping to engineer extracellular vesicles to better target cancer cells and deliver anti-cancer medications.”
Castano’s research focuses on incorporating folate onto the surface of extracellular vesicles while loading them with copper-based molecules. This innovative approach results in vesicles loaded with potent anticancer medication and a surface highly detectable by cancer cells.
“The cost and ambition behind this project is high, but I hope the results will open new areas of research, ensuring a future where cancer exists only in medical history books,” Castano remarked.
The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Experience
When asked about his experience at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Castano expressed enthusiasm for the institution’s unique collaborative model.
“My experience so far has been incredible,” Castano said. “I never imagined attending such a vibrant and multicultural place. My favorite part? It’s the unique blend of two universities with completely different histories coming together. The opportunities here are phenomenal!”
Why Biomedical Engineering?
Castano chose to major in biomedical engineering because he is committed to making a tangible difference in healthcare outcomes.
“I’ve always had a fascination with biology,” he explained, “but while biologists study things, I wanted to create solutions.” This rapidly evolving field offers him the opportunity to be part of a transformative journey. “My goal is to dive into the medical field, though I’m still exploring which area truly calls to me,” he said.
Summer Research at University of Pennsylvania
Castano took a significant step forward this summer with an internship at the University of Pennsylvania, where he worked in a gene editing laboratory focused on cancer prevention.
“It was nothing short of amazing,” he said. “I worked on finding preventative treatments for cancer using a technique called prime editing to correct mutations from birth. Can you imagine? Someday, a child could be born with their cancer risk drastically lowered to almost zero!”
Commitment to Community and Mentorship
Castano’s dedication to helping others extends beyond his academic research. As a mentor with the PeaceJam Foundation, he educated young people on crucial issues like clean water and equal rights.
“It was an enriching experience,” he explained. “We inspired kids to think critically about the world and how they can contribute.”
Additionally, he participates in the Engineering Ambassadors Network, where he focuses on teaching youth about possibilities in science. He is currently making strides in the Li laboratory, focused on developing therapies to treat glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.
“At the core of my drive is a strong desire to make the world a better place where people live healthier lives,” he said.
Navigating Challenges as a First-Generation College Student
Like many first-generation students pursuing engineering degrees, Castano’s journey has presented unique challenges.
“As a first-generation college student, figuring out how to navigate opportunities was tough,” he admitted. “But I learned that the best approach is to actively seek them out instead of waiting for them to find you.”
Editor’s Note: This article was edited with a custom prompt for Claude Sonnet 4, an AI assistant created by Anthropic. The AI optimized the article for SEO discoverability, improved clarity, structure and readability while preserving the original reporting and factual content. All information and viewpoints remain those of the author and publication. This article was edited and fact-checked by college staff before being published. This disclosure is part of our commitment to transparency in our editorial process. Last edited: 11-3-2025.
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