Jack Andraka

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

Jack Andraka

01

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.

Biography

02

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.

What Did He Develop?

03

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.

The Science Behind the Discovery

Video

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Impacts of the Discovery

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

Impacts of the Discovery

+ INFO

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

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

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

His innovation received global recognition, inspiring other young scientists.

05

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.

Challenges and Reception

06

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.

Relationship with School

07

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.

Relevance in Today's World

Video

08

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/

Sources

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