14-year-old Anika Cebrolu, a middle schooler from Frisco, Texas, recently won the 2020 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Her research involved discovering a molecule that can bind to the coronavirus spike protein for the development of drug treatments. The virtual competition showcased the top ten finalists of the 3M Young Scientist Challenge between the ages 12 and 14.
The spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 plays an essential role in binding to the airways and spreading infection. It has also been targeted by researchers for the repurposing and development of antiviral drugs to treat the virus.
Moreover, the spike protein has been observed to be mutating over the past few months. Experts believe that the virus may be adapting to human hosts. Researchers also discovered that mutated strains of the virus are multiple times stronger than the original strain from 2019 in China.
Despite international clinical trials and studies, there is a lack of therapy results that improved patients' condition. Months into the pandemic, researchers continue to develop vaccines while using existing drugs as a temporary treatment.
Anika's Research
Using software tools during her research, Anika screened millions of molecules in search of one that would specifically bind to the Covid-19 S protein. Other factors of the molecule included binding affinities, drug-likeness, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADMET) properties. ADMET properties are categories used for developing drug treatments and how it interacts with the body.
3M's Denise Rutherford said that in the middle of the academic challenges during this pandemic, "quality STEM education for all has become an even more urgent need." The company commits to bring up the next generation of scientific leaders.
Although the event was virtual and had limitations, Rutherford said that the top ten finalizes "smashed through barriers with grit, creativity, innovative thinking, and excitement - all in the name of applying science to improve lives." Moreover, 3M scientists were also inspired by the innovation of young students.
Scientific Research for World Problems
During the competition, 3M scientists had one-on-one mentoring with each finalist over the past few months. The young middle schoolers were able to transform their scientific concepts into physical prototypes. Anika was mentored by Dr. Mahfuza Ali of the company's Materials Resource Division.
Dr. Ali's work includes antistatic polarizer films for laptops and televisions with her Quaternary Ammonium Materials Technology Platform. Films used for printing result in brighter images with antimicrobial coatings.
Aside from a cash prize, a destination trip, and the title of "America's Top Young Scientist," Anika also received the Improving Lives Award for her research. The award is in recognition of her work can potentially save the most lives.
Lori McFarling from Discovery Education said that for the past ten years, they have partnered with 3M with the shared "commitment to empowering young people to bring the power of STEM learning to life."
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