America’s standing as a leader in science hinges on the creativity and determination of students like those at Lambert High School in suburban Atlanta. These teenagers are making strides in the fight against Lyme disease, which impacts nearly half a million Americans each year. Their weapon of choice? The groundbreaking gene-editing tool known as CRISPR.
At the heart of this innovation is the iGEM competition, a global platform for budding scientists to showcase their projects. Lambert’s team is up against skilled groups from around the world, including China, which is rapidly advancing in biotechnology.
In the school’s lab, students like Sean Lee have embraced genetic engineering. They’re not just learning—they’re pushing the boundaries of synthetic biology.
Understanding the Challenge
Lyme disease poses major risks, including arthritis, nerve damage, and heart issues if not caught early. Unfortunately, diagnosing it is a challenge. Many people go years without a correct diagnosis, making early detection critical. Current tests often fail to identify the disease in its initial stages, where treatment is most effective.
Lambert’s innovative approach aims to zero in on a specific protein produced by the Lyme bacteria. Using CRISPR, they can target DNA strands where the protein resides, simplifying detection. This method has the potential to create a test similar to a home pregnancy or COVID-19 test strip.
Learning from Experts
Experts like Dr. Drew Endy, a Stanford professor and co-founder of iGEM, recognize the significance of youth participation in synthetic biology. He warns that America’s grasp on biotechnology could slip if younger generations don’t engage in such projects. As he’s noted, initiatives like Lambert’s could reshape the future of medical diagnostics.
Community Support and Background
Lambert High is situated in an affluent district, giving students access to a top-notch lab and resources. Most of the iGEM team are children of immigrants, contributing to a diverse academic environment. The school’s strong track record in biotechnology consistently attracts families seeking educational opportunities for their children.
Expanding the Impact
In addition to diagnostics, Lambert’s team is exploring CRISPR’s potential for treatment. Their goal is to develop “software” that optimally utilizes CRISPR for precise targeting. This could revolutionize how Lyme disease is treated, presenting an alternative to traditional antibiotics.
Global Competition
As the iGEM competition in Paris approached, the stakes were high. Lambert’s project had already demonstrated the ability to detect Lyme disease within two days of infection, far quicker than existing methods.
Despite their successes, the team aimed to complete their project and presentation under tight deadlines. They managed to endure long nights, balancing coding, research, and website development.
A Bright Future
The competition at the Paris convention was intense, showcasing over 400 teams. Although the Lambert team didn’t snag the grand prize, they celebrated their achievements, particularly in software development. They became the only American team in the high school top 10, a significant honor.
Reflecting on their journey, student Claire Lee remarked on the meaningful impact their project could have. They are motivated not just by grades, but by the possibility of saving lives.
As young innovators, the Lambert team exemplifies the spirit of inquiry and perseverance that defines the future of science. Their work is a reminder that with the right resources and support, the next generation of scientists can lead the way in tackling complex global health issues.
Source link
CRISPR
