Jack Andraka

Jack Andraka

Camila nº 2, Nuno nº 17 , Ricardo nº 20 10º D

01

Biography

Biography

• Born on January 8, 1997, in the USA.

• Young scientist, inventor, and advocate for open access to information.

• Developed an interest in science from a young age, particularly in biology and nanotechnology.

• At just 15 years old, he developed a revolutionary cancer detection method.

• Studied at Stanford University, continuing his work in medical research and innovation.

• Passionate about education and making scientific knowledge accessible to all.

02

What Did He Develop?

What Did He Develop?

• Created an innovative, inexpensive method for the early detection of pancreatic cancer.

• The method is based on a paper sensor that detects mesothelin, a biomarker for pancreatic cancer.

• Uses carbon nanotubes and specific antibodies to measure mesothelin levels in blood or urine samples.

• The test is over 90% accurate in initial trials.

• Compared to traditional methods, which are expensive and invasive, his test is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.

• This innovation has the potential to be adapted for detecting other types of cancer.

03

The Science Behind the Discovery

The Science Behind the Discovery

• Traditional pancreatic cancer detection methods rely on costly imaging techniques and are often diagnosed too late.

• Jack Andraka’s method works similarly to a diabetes test strip.

• The test measures electrical resistance changes when mesothelin binds to antibodies.

• This method allows for early-stage detection, increasing the chances of survival.

• His work combines nanotechnology, biochemistry, and medical diagnostics to create a more accessible healthcare solution.

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04

Impacts of the Discovery

Impacts of the Discovery

Early detection significantly improves survival rates for pancreatic cancer, which has a high mortality rate.

The cost of his test is less than $3, making it more accessible to low-income populations.

Highlighted the importance of open-access research, as he developed his test using freely available scientific papers.

If implemented widely, it could lead to early diagnoses and save thousands of lives each year.

His innovation received global recognition, inspiring other young scientists.

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05

Challenges and Reception

Challenges and Reception

• Faced skepticism from established scientists and medical professionals due to his young age.
• Encountered difficulties obtaining laboratory access to test his theories.

• Despite initial challenges, he won the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in 2012.

• Needs further clinical trials and FDA approval before widespread use.

• Continues to work on improving diagnostic technologies and advocating for STEM education.

06

Relationship with School

Relationship with School

• His story highlights the importance of science education and independent research.

• Encourages students to think critically and pursue knowledge beyond school curricula.

• Shows that young people can contribute to scientific advancements.

• Demonstrates the role of teachers and mentors in fostering curiosity and innovation.

• Advocates for better STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in schools to encourage future innovators.

07

Relevance in Today's World

Relevance in Today's World

• Early disease detection remains a critical field in modern healthcare.

• Affordable and accessible diagnostic tools can revolutionize medicine, especially in developing countries.

• His work serves as an example of how young scientists can make meaningful contributions.

• Continues to inspire initiatives in biotechnology and personalized medicine.

• Supports open-access scientific research to accelerate medical discoveries.

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08

Sources

Sources

• https://aventurasnahistoria.com.br/noticias/reportagem/conheca-historia-de-jack-andraka-o-jovem-que-inventou-um-sistema-para-detectar-cancer.phtml
• https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/champions/open-science/jack-andraka
• https://www.bertrand.pt/autor/jack-andraka/3319110?srsltid=AfmBOorS-1BfKbv_-Cym8jWndRXagM0Kdu4LJJxyXFA7_mCUo_gRDlXT
• https://www.futuredocs.com/jack-andraka
• https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/jack-andraka-the-teen-prodigy-of-pancreatic-cancer-135925809/

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