A 13-year-old middle school student from Chicago has made a groundbreaking discovery that could help protect against cancer. Camarria Williams collected guano, or bird droppings, near a pond as part of a science project for a 14-week program. The laboratory tests revealed a never-before-seen compound that slowed the growth of human melanoma and ovarian cancer cells.
The student, along with other young participants in the program, chose various environmental samples to test for bacteria. Their findings were analyzed by University of Illinois Chicago graduate students and postdoc mentors. Camarria’s sample of guano contained a unique compound that caught scientists’ attention.
Further research is underway to understand how this compound works in killing cancer cells. Other compounds found in the guano are also being tested for their antibiotic properties. The discovery has been hailed as proof that it’s possible to integrate educational awareness programs with the discovery of high-quality natural products.
Camarria’s achievement comes as part of a program designed to engage youth from marginalized neighborhoods in STEM education. Scientists involved in the project praised the students’ confidence and progress throughout the 14-week program.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14165637/chicago-student-cancer-fighting-compound-camarria-williams.html