13-Year-Old Chicago Student Discovers Cancer-Fighting properties in Goose Poop

Source: ig @globalpositivenews A remarkable scientific discovery has come from an unexpected source—a middle school student. Camarria Willia...

Source: ig @globalpositivenews

A remarkable scientific discovery has come from an unexpected source—a middle school student. Camarria Williams, a 13-year-old budding scientist from Chicago, made headlines after uncovering a compound in goose droppings that shows potential in fighting cancer cells.

Camarria participated in the Chicago Antibiotic Discovery Lab, a STEM outreach initiative created to spark curiosity and introduce young students to real-world scientific exploration. As part of the program, she was asked to collect environmental samples for lab research. During a visit to a local park, she came across goose droppings that would soon lead to a groundbreaking find.

Back in the lab, Camarria analyzed the sample and identified Pseudomonas idahoensis, a bacterium that produces a previously unknown compound now called orfamide N. Although the compound is not antibacterial, researchers discovered something even more promising: orfamide N is toxic to skin and ovarian cancer cells, showing the potential to slow their growth.

Her impressive discovery was published in the prestigious journal ACS Omega, part of the American Chemical Society. The achievement not only highlights Camarria’s talent but also demonstrates the power of early STEM engagement and hands-on learning experiences for young students.

The story was first highlighted by The Washington Post and has since gained widespread attention for its inspiring blend of curiosity, science, and youthful determination. The photo shared in the report comes from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, where programs like this help nurture the next generation of innovators.

Camarria’s discovery serves as a powerful reminder: groundbreaking science can come from anywhere—and sometimes from the most unexpected places.

h/t: Washington Post

Photo: Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago

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