In the world of scientific breakthroughs, age is proving to be no barrier for young minds hungry for discovery. Meet Johnathan Sherrill, a high schooler from Power Center Academy, whose passion for computational bioinformatics has led to an astonishing revelation in the study of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He’s a rockstar scholar who has already gained much recognition for his work with CodeCrew.
Johnathan’s journey into the intricate realm of genetics began last summer during his participation in St. Jude’s Immersion Internship. Immersed in computational bioinformatics research, he delved deep into the quest to identify the primary gene linked to ALS, a neurodegenerative disease with complex origins involving both hereditary and environmental factors.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Johnathan meticulously analyzed genetic data, aiming to pinpoint the gene most strongly correlated with ALS. His exhaustive study led him to focus on three potential candidates:
Optineurin (OPTN), Annexin (ANXA11), and SOD1, all suspected to play pivotal roles in the disease’s progression.
To ensure the accuracy of his findings, Johnathan cross-referenced his data using various reputable sources such as Clinvar, ProteinPaint, and the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. Through this comprehensive approach, he not only confirmed the significance of the genes but also grasped the nuances of utilizing tools like ProteinPaint for gene mapping and analysis.
Recently, Johnathan had the honor of attending the Immersion Internship alumni banquet at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This event not only allowed him to celebrate his accomplishments but also provided a platform to network with mentors who had guided him during his tenure at St. Jude.
Johnathan Sherrill’s dedication and groundbreaking findings in the realm of ALS research serve as a testament to the immense potential and drive young minds possess when given the opportunity to explore their interests. His story not only highlights the importance of high school internships but also underscores the impact of nurturing curiosity and providing access to resources in shaping the future of scientific discovery.