Featuring Articles On
HIV Treatment
KRAS Inhibitors
Morphogenesis
Visualization
AI in Cancer Detection
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Advisor: Mrs. Ashley Moore
President: Khushee Goel
Vice President: Peyton Thai
Secretary: Tanisi Chauhan
Editorial Designer: Ivanka Deshpande
In January 2024, researchers developed new inhibitors targeting the KRAS protein, which is often mutated in numerous cancers. The KRAS gene provides instructions for making a protein called K-Ras, which is part of the RAS/MAPK pathway. Mutations in the KRAS gene are one of the most common in human cancers, like lung, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. For decades, KRAS was considered “undruggable” because of its complex structure and lack of drug-binding sites. In 2013, however, researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, created a KRAS G12C inhibitor, targeting the switch II pocket of the KRAS, preventing any activity from the region when mutated, found in 13% of non-small lung cancer patients. In 2021 and 2022, adagrasib (Krazati) and sotorasib (Lumkras) were approved. Since then, researchers have built off and targeted other KRAS mutations like KRAS G12D, and pan-KRAS inhibitors targeting multiple mutations. 2024 studies have shown that combining KRAS inhibitors with chemotherapy can significantly improve their effectiveness. For example, chemotherapy added to an experimental KRAS inhibitor called MRTX1133 reduced tumor growth and spread significantly, preventing cancer cells from developing resistance to cancer therapy. In January of 2024, several new KRAS inhibitors were developed by Quanta Therapeutics, like QTX3034 (the FDA has approved testing as a monotherapy and combinational therapy option), QTX3046, and QTX3544.
Antibiotics, medications that work to stop bacterial infections, are a cornerstone of modern medicine. The history of antibiotics often begins with Alexander Fleming and Penicillin. The story goes that Fleming returned from a vacation to find that a fungus, Penicillium notatum, had spread and contaminated a sample of the bacteria Staphylococcus. However, an active agent in the fungus prevented the bacteria from growing, and this agent (called Penicillin) went on to become the “wonder drug” of WWII. Since then, the variety and efficacy of antibiotics have exploded, turning once life-threatening illnesses into easily treatable conditions. However, a prominent issue regarding antibiotics has emerged. As more individuals have used antibiotics, certain bacteria have developed mutations that make them resistant. As the population of antibiotic-resistant bacteria grows and the resistance genes are passed on, an entire strain becomes resistant to an antibiotic, reducing the medication’s effectiveness. The issue of antibiotic resistance is multifaceted, and research to find possible solutions is ongoing. To prevent antibiotic resistance, only take antibiotics when needed, and be sure to take the medication for the entire duration of your prescription or illness
SuccessfulClinicalTrialsofCresomycin,an ExperimentalAntibiotic
February 2024 was an important milestone in the search for new, effective antibiotics. A drug, called Cresomycin, was developed by research groups from Harvard University and the University of Illinois at Chicago. Cresomycin’s mode of action is a bit different from previous antibiotics. The drug targets the bacterial ribosome, an organelle essential for protein synthesis. Since ribosomes are present in gram-positive and gramnegative bacteria, Cresomycin can inhibit growth in both. Although antibiotics that bind to and alter bacterial ribosomes exist, Cresomycin was designed to improve binding, since past trials have shown that ribosomes have certain defenses. So far, clinical trials have indicated that the drug is effective against multiple resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Trials occurred in vivo (within a living organism) and in vitro (outside a living organism, in a lab) and both were successful. Cresomycin has yet to complete further trials and obtain FDA approval, but if it succeeds, it could be a potential solution to the issue of antibiotic resistance.
Anoushka Majumdar
On March 20, 2024, scientists successfully removed HIV using the CRISPR gene editing technology CRISPR stands for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, and is a genome editing tool that uses the Cas-9 protein to remove harmful gene sequences from one’s DNA Though first discovered in 1987, major breakthroughs in this gene editing technology followed in 2020. Researchers Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier , both recipients of the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, demonstrated the active and precise use of CRISPR, and opened the door to future genomic DNA editing. But at this junction in science, scientists began to formulate questions around ethicality Is it ethical to edit a human life, before it is born? How would equality be maintained in the context of this highly expensive and currently exclusive gene editing technology? And finally, where do we draw the line between enhancing versus protective genomic edits?
Until STEM community members and lawmakers define a clear set of ethical use cases for CRISPR, the process of editing a human genome remains illegal in the US
However, research continues as labs test the gene editing tool in controlled lab settings. As of March 2024, researchers at the Amsterdam University Research Center, working in accordance with the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases(ECCMID), reported the use of CRISPR-cas proteins to alter HIV infected DNA. In the case of HIV, specifically, the research continues, as this infectious agent often redevelops in patients, even after treatment. However, these results are promising for the potential of CRISPR in reversing severe infections. If channeled ethically and proven to protect its recipients against such harmful conditions, CRISPR, technologies may become legalized more rapidly and countless lives can be transformed for the better
Khushee Goel
HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are responsible for fighting infections. When untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). As the disease spreads, it goes through three distinct phases: Acute HIV Infection, Chronic HIV Infection, and AIDS. Acute HIV Infection is the initial stage, with symptoms resembling the flu, with a fever, sore throat, and fatigue. Chronic HIV Infection is the stage where the virus is active but with little to no symptoms, lasting several years Finally, AIDS is the final stage, where the immune system is severely damaged, and the body becomes vulnerable to infections and specific cancers Tuberculosis, pneumonia, fungal and viral infections, as well as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and liver problems, have become a reality for those facing HIV untreated. Lives are forever changed, which is where HIV prevention comes in. In 2022, Gilead Sciences Inc. made an incredible breakthrough with a modern take on drugs for HIV prevention, approved by the Food and Drug Association (FDA). The drug, Lenacapavir, targets the HIV-1 capsid, the protein shell that protects the virus’ genetic material and enzymes, and attaches to the interface between capsid protein subunits. By disrupting the function of the subunits, Lenacapavir effectively interferes with the virus’ lifecycle by preventing the virus from entering the host cell’s nucleus and replicating its genetic material and particles In April of 2024, the drug was tested twice, illustrating remarkable results: one trial reported a 96% success rate, while the other reported a 100% success rate Currently, HIV drugs are sold as daily pills, a hassle
to remember and expensive to buy Lenacapavir, instead, is a twicea-year remedy, revolutionizing HIV prevention
On May 8, 2024, Google released the AlphaFold 3, as a way for Google to enter the field of science through AI The AlphaFold 3 is the successor to the AlphaFold 2, has improved algorithmic capabilities, and has access to a larger molecular database The AlphaFold series aims to predict the structures of proteins (which can be incredibly complex) through its analysis of differing protein. On
May 8, 2024, Google released the AlphaFold 3, as a way for Google to enter the field of science through AI The AlphaFold 3 is the successor to the AlphaFold 2, has improved algorithmic capabilities, and has access to a larger molecular database The AlphaFold series aims to predict the structures of proteins (which can be incredibly complex) through its analysis of differing protein interactions The AlphaFold 3 is can also model dynamic protein shapes in addition to static shapes. The AlphaFold 3’s capable mapping and modeling programs enables it to mark interactions between proteins and other biomolecules, and as a result, it is able to simulate molecular pathways and complex cellular systems. By mapping these interactions and simulating molecular pathways, the AlphaFold 3 is able to identify possible drug targets and speed up pharmaceutical development of drugs. The AlphaFold 3’s intense mapping capabilities is of great use to researchers trying to understand pathways in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and infections. The AlphaFold 3 holds limitless potential for the future of biotechnology
Chang’e6DockingontheMoon
In orbit for nearly a month, the Chang’e 6 lunar spacecraft landed on the Moon on June 1, 2024 This mission was especially unique, given that it would mark the first time a lunar lander successfully ventured to and collected samples from the far side of the moon. Upon landing, Chang’e 6 used its state-of-the-art imaging and robotic arm technologies to collect a sample of the moon. This effort was made possible through international collaboration, as France, Sweden, ESA, Italy, and Pakistan all contributed to the development process by providing a Detection of Outgassing RadoN (DORN), Negative Ions at the Lunar Surface (NILS), a laser retroreflector (INRRI), and aICUBE-Q cubesat, respectively. Using these advanced technologies, the spacecraft not only collected and returned a sediment sample back to earth, but it was also able to successfully deploy a rover to further explore and photograph the landing site. As China’s 6th lunar spacecraft, the objective of this mission was to retrieve a sample of the moon and further research the history of the moon. Marking this mission’s success, scientists have thus far been able to find proof of a volcanic eruption dating back nearly 3 billion years ago, based on an examination of the collected Moon sample This evidence is promising, new information that can potentially help us better understand the formation of our solar system, and the universe, as a whole
Khushee Goel
Welcome to the middle of summer; the time of ice cream sundaes on hot afternoons, hours, basking in the coolness of pools, and tech conventions! July, happens to be the ideal pick for all event planners, so, allow me to breakdown this rather tall collection of meets! Momentum AI San Jose 2024, was a conference held from July 15-16, where large corporations came together to discuss how AI can be effectively utilized to operate more efficiently. Taking place again in 2025, speakers will include Phil Wiser, the Chief Technology Officer at Paramount Global, and Kalyani Sekar, Verizon’s SVP and Global Chief Information Officer This particular conference is noted to be a rare opportunity, as it provides the chance for individuals to collaborate and network with numerous other business technologists to better their operations and additional facilities. The Display Innovation Day offers virtual insight into the event and attempts to, in its one-day span, highlight key innovations in the display technology field! These innovations tend to typically focus on AI, micro-displays, AR/VR displays, and Micro-Optics Registration for this event opens up soon, so make sure to sign up if you’re any bit interested within this field! Lastly, Women Impact Tech hosts their 2025 West Regional Accelerate Conference in July The virtual event leverage technology to connect passionate STEM community members, and focuses on providing a sense of community for women in tech. As stated previously, panel discussions include technological-related topics such as “AI in Action,” “What Does the Future of Generative AI Mean for Creativity and Innovation,” and “Emerging Technologies,” but it will also include career-related discussions such as “Winning in Technical Interviews” and “Leveling Up: Strategies for Tech Professionals to Achieve Career Growth.” Not only did the month of July, 2024, mark many important STEM events, but July of 2025 is also expected to be filled with such STEM related opportunities, so be sure to look forward to July, I know I will!
In August 2024, morphogenesis saw significant breakthroughs Morphogenesis is the biological process that gives cells, tissues, and organisms their shape Using sophisticated computer modeling, researchers analyzed how cells arrange themselves into different groups and their interactions during tissue formation. 3D bioprinters with specialized bioink (which can mimic the extracellular matrix) were utilized to further visualize the creation of tissues with cellular systems that promote growth. The research into morphogenesis enabled researchers to replicate complex tissues, such as heart valves, liver lobes, and neural networks. These replicated tissues mimic their natural counterparts and are much easier to study. Furthermore, these replicated tissues have surgical applications in regenerative medicine. Although not ready yet, morphogenesis research has the long-term goal of being able to repair damaged organs, as well as being used for transplants. Currently, though, morphogenesis research fostered better understanding regarding congenital heart defects and skeletal malformations, which, in turn, led to improved early diagnosis and corrective care for both developmental disorders Morphogenesis is the key to understanding natural development
As of September, 2024, scientists at the University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre(ORC) reported the discovery of a 5 dimensional memory crystal, capable of storing memory for billions of years In fact, this crystal is coined a “Superman memory crystal” for its exceptional durability and memory
Made through a careful process, this memory crystal required the use of a femtosecond laser(capable of emitting pulses every quadrillionth of a second) which carefully fused silica ont the quartz chip, forming a highly stable and durable crystal design The memory crystal is further revolutionary due to its five dimensions Including the conventional x, y, and z plains, along with the optical properties of polarization and orientation, the five dimensions contribute to the crystals high density data storage capabilities
After multiple attempts and thorough testing, this crystal was produced from synthetic materials similar to natural
In October 2024, researchers at the University of Birmingham developed a new quantum theory that defined the precise shape of a photon for the first time. The theory explains how photons are emitted by atoms, and when atoms emit the photons, the photon’s shape is then influenced by its environment. As light and matter interact, energy travels from the interaction site into the surrounding environment. This complex interaction could be simplified using the “pseudomode transformation,” a
\mathematical framework that allowed the researchers to group the infinite number of lightmatter interactions into sets. The model describes how the energy from the interaction between the
quartz Made of exceptionally stable compounds and capable of withstanding fire, cosmic radiation, and more, this technology can store up to 360 terabytes of information Its durable properties also ensure the preservation of data without degradation over time Therefore, scientists argue that the robust structure of this memory crystal could store information about the human genome, evolution, and other important documents, ultimately serving as a means of storage until the end of time.
photon and its source (the atom) travels into the distant “far field.” Photons have wave-particle duality, exhibiting both wave-like and particle-like properties, making it difficult to define their exact shape. But, using the calculations and the new theory, the researchers were able to produce a visualization of the photon’s shape. As this theory becomes further developed, new technologies could begin to emerge. Nanophotonic technologies would improve, with secure communications, pathogen detection, and molecular control in chemical reactions. Photon shapes and their interactions with matter could provide insight into how photons can be used in quantum information processing. With new and improved understanding, solar cells could be enhanced, becoming more efficient.
The world we live in is increasingly driven by artificial intelligence, a force that has no doubt revolutionized the technological sector However, there is evidence that this domination may expand into a separate field: medicine
Throughout 2024, Artificial Intelligence has displayed increasing accuracy in the pathological field of disease detection As of June 19th, 2024, Stanford Medicine had established a tool, nuclei io, for the diagnosis and evaluation of various diseases Out of these, however, the A I was most proficient at detecting endometritis, an inflammation of the uterine lining, and metastasized colon cancer, allowing Stanford doctors to make diagnoses 62% faster and 72% more accurate The key, as stated by the associate professor of biomedical data science, James Zou, “[was ] a tool that collaborates well with doctors” rather than “replac[ing] them.”
In November, a similar tool would be developed at Stanford Medicine, albeit one focused more on evaluation and decisionmaking rather than diagnosis. The tool, SEQUOIA, as it would come to be known (slide-based expression quantification using linearized attention) would predict patterns in the gene signatures of a biopsy. Cancer diagnosis, as relating to type and severity, is easily facilitated with the proper procedure (a tumor biopsy analyzed under a microscope) and a pathologist. However, detecting the potential treatment with the knowledge
of what genomic changes have allowed the cancer’s growth, is much more difficult The traditional procedure involves RNA sequencing of the tumor, as to determine the gene expression (often through RT-PCR or an equivalent alternative): a process that takes weeks of crucial time for the patient, and thousands of dollars Stanford Medicine’s SEQUOIA is able to predict variations in 15, 000 separate genes (around 75% of the total human genome of approximately 20, 000 genes) When compared to the real-life activity data, the A.I.’s predicted gene activity was correlated with more than 80%. Furthermore, when compared to the FDAapproved Mamma-Print test (a test measuring genomic activity to offer a patient the risk of their cancer recurring), the A I was equally accurate Despite this, SEQUOIA requires much fewer resources (only a biopsy prepared with the hematoxylin and eosin staining method), potentially saving weeks of precious time. Although currently unavailable for clinical testing, SEQUOIA, alongside similar Artificial Intelligence models, offers hope for massive developments in disease prevention and treatment.
Chaitanya
SuccessfulClinicalTrialsofCresomycin,an ExperimentalAntibiotic
Quantum computing has taken a great step towards better advancements. Google’s Willow chip, released in December 2024, is set to improve upon the current quantum computing by a large scale–faster, smarter, and more accurate than ever. Willow is Google’s latest quantum chip, reducing errors exponentially, and being able to perform computations a whole lot faster than before. The errors were reduced by implementing more qubits, units of computation in quantum computers. Generally, introducing more qubits results in more errors, however Google was able to reduce the number of errors by using more qubits. They tested different size grid arrays of qubits starting from a 3x3 grid, to a 5x5 grid, to a grid of 7x7, each time exponentially improving upon the number of errors This is a real accomplishment considering that improving the error correction has been a great challenge since it was introduced in 1995 Correcting errors is an incredible achievement, since each time an error occurs while performing a computation, it will ruin the computation before it’s finished running
To measure the speed of Willow’s performance, Google used the random circuit sampling (RCS) benchmark RCS is known to be one of the hardest benchmarks that can be done on a quantum computer today This benchmark can be thought of as an assessment, checking if the quantum computer can perform tasks that a classical computer would be unable to perform Willow’s performance on this benchmark is outstanding, executing a computation in under five minutes that would take Frontier, one of the world’s fastest computers, about 10 septillion years to complete
With Willow, Google took a great leap forward making quantum computing more reliable and versatile This development allows us to use quantum computing to solve problems that would otherwise be unsolvable Although there are still challenges, Google is working on improving the Willow generation of chips to make quantum computing chips relevant to the real world Will quantum computing be able to go way beyond classical computers and be applicable to everyday problems?
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