2025 STEAM EXPO

PROJECT SUMMARY

The question my project is based on is: How do genetic mutations influence human health? I explored how changes in a person’s DNA can lead to health problems like genetic disorders, but also how some mutations can be harmless or even helpful. My goal was to understand the different ways mutations affect the body and how scientists study them to find treatments. (There is a catch: the presentation can only include less than 10 words per slide)

WHY?

I did this project to better understand how genetic mutations impact human health and why they are important to study. I wanted to find out how mutations can cause diseases like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or cancer, but also how some mutations might protect people from certain illnesses. I was working on the problem of understanding both the harmful and helpful effects of genetic changes in the body.

HOW?

To make my project, I first researched what genetic mutations are and how they happen. Then, I looked for examples of diseases and conditions caused by mutations, as well as examples of helpful mutations. I organized the information into a presentation with pictures and simple explanations. Finally, I practiced explaining how scientists study mutations to find ways to treat or prevent health problems.

WHAT?

I found out that not all genetic mutations are bad, some can be neutral or even helpful. Many health problems, like sickle cell anemia and some cancers, are caused by harmful mutations that change how the body works. My project showed that scientists use genetic testing and data to find these mutations and develop treatments. By studying patterns in DNA, researchers can better understand diseases and sometimes even prevent them.

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGfXiIzsAo/P1g3jyD93jEOiDHNAs1Q9g/edit (It's not a Photo but a presentation)

SO WHAT?

My results matter because they show how important it is to study genetic mutations to improve human health. I learned that understanding mutations helps scientists create better treatments and even find ways to prevent certain diseases. Because of my project, we can understand that while some mutations cause serious health problems, others might actually help people survive better in certain environments. Studying mutations gives us important clues about how the human body works and how we can stay healthier.

WHAT'S NEXT?

To make my project better, I would add more real-life examples of people affected by genetic mutations to make it more personal and interesting. Next time, I would also include an experiment or model showing how mutations happen in DNA. I could try using interactive activities, like a simulation or a game, to help people understand how small changes in genes can have big effects. Adding interviews with scientists or videos could make the project even stronger.

REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I want to thank a lot of people who have helped me throughout the project. I sincerely appreciate Ms. Dorothy Broussard for her assitance and constructive criticism.

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