Touchpoint 1
Unlocking mRNA’s cancer-fighting potential
What is it?
A MIT startup company wants to use mRNA breakthroughs learned during COVID-19 to fight cancer. The are testing molecules that enter the body and can sense a cancer cell. Once attached, they release a protein that fights the cancer at a cellular level.
Potential message to students:
Do you think this is a good idea? Do you think this will work? What other diseases might be treated using this same approach?
Touchpoint 2
Bladderwort: How a Carnivorous Plant Could Be Used in Mosquito Control
What is it?
A Bladderwort is a marine plant that feeds on larva that touches it’s leaves. Scientists think they can put bladdwort in large lakes in India and reduce insect-spread diseases. In early tests, the found Bladdorwort reduced insects by 50%.
Potential message for students:
Insects are the top killer of humans and animals on Earth. What do you think of this idea? Do you think the bladderwort would cause unintended problems if introduced to lakes? What are some other ways to control insects besides spraying pesticides?
Touchpoint 3
Astrobiology Spinoff? Introduced Tardigrade Proteins Can Slow Metabolism In Human Cells
What is it?
Tardigrades are tiny animals that are so tough, they can survive just about anything. NASA has even taken them to outer space to see if they survive. Scientists think there is a protein in the tardigrade that can be used to slow metabolism and the human aging process.
Potential message to students:
Do you think scientists should study the toughest organisms on earth to just see if there is anything interesting or applicable to humans? Do you think manufactured drugs or using the biology from an organism is the key to fighting diseases?