In a remarkable achievement, 14-year-old Heman Bekele from Fairfax, Virginia, has developed a groundbreaking soap known as MTS (Melanoma Treating Soap) to combat skin cancer. This achievement has earned him the highest honor in the 3M Young Scientist’s Challenge, a competition that encourages young minds to find innovative solutions to common problems.
According to a report by Interesting Engineering, MTS is formulated with cancer-fighting agents, specifically Imidazoquinoline, combined with a nanolipid-based particle transporter. Bekele drew inspiration for his creation from his time in Ethiopia, where he witnessed the prevalence of skin cancer, especially among those who worked outdoors. Motivated by the high costs of skin cancer treatment worldwide, Bekele aimed to create an affordable and accessible solution.
Using digital molecular testing, Bekele extensively experimented with various ingredients and their combinations within a computer model. This approach allowed him to evaluate the effectiveness of each combination accurately. While the soap showed promising results in digital testing, it has not yet undergone human trials due to the lack of FDA certification.
MTS aims to deliver cancer-fighting drugs using lipid nanoparticles, as reported by NPR. These nanoparticles activate the body’s immune cells to effectively combat cancer. Bekele explained that the average price of skin cancer treatment globally is approximately $40,000. This shocking statistic inspired him to create a more affordable solution.
Bekele started his research and development process in his family kitchen and basement, focusing on the soap-making process. He used an emulsifier, bases, and various chemicals, all handled safely within his home. As his work progressed, Bekele sought assistance from the University of Virginia and Georgetown, expanding his research outside the home environment.
With the prize money from the 3M Young Scientist’s Challenge, Bekele plans to continue his STEM research. He expressed the need for additional resources to conduct his research and acknowledged that the prize money would greatly aid his goals.
Apart from Bekele, Discovery Education reported that a group of fourteen students aged 11-14 also tackled real-world problems within their communities or globally. The ten finalists, representing various public and private schools throughout the United States, submitted concise videos explaining the science behind their ideas.
In summary, Heman Bekele’s creation of the Melanoma Treating Soap (MTS) has gained recognition and praise. His dedication to combatting skin cancer through affordable means showcases his innovative thinking and determination to make a difference. With the support of the 3M Young Scientist’s Challenge, Bekele’s research and development journey continues, holding great potential for the future of skin cancer treatment.
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