Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello,
I am currently in the process of finding a topic for a regional science fair. I recently encountered the idea of IPS cells and how they can be used to treat diseases like Alzheimer's. Basically these cells can be reprogrammed to form something similar to neurons, which we can treat afflicted people with. Does anyone think I can continue with this topic and actually design a project based on it? Or is it too complicated? Any suggestions?

Thank you!

Hello bubbles and welcome to Science Buddies,

Stem cells in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease is certainly an important area! You might want to look at two sources for ideas for a project that is feasible as a high school science project. I suggest that you first search the Science Buddies site for project ideas https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... oraproject using search terms like "stem cells." This will show you the types of projects in this area which might be feasible with the resources you have available.

Then, broaden your search to the web using search terms like "using stem cells for treating Alzheimer's disease" to see what sort of research is being done in research lab, for example, this lab
https://www.mskcc.org/research-areas/labs/lorenz-studer.

Once you pick a specific question or two that interest you, look again at the "Make it your own" sections in the suggested Science Buddies projects. This might seem like a huge task, but come back and report what you are interested in and the experts here at Science Buddies will try to help!