Holt students recognized for original research
May 23, 2009
Wentzville School District
Three students from Holt High School, Randy Ray, Leslie Young and Kaystin Weisenberger, all qualified as finalists for this year’s International Science and Engineering Fair held in Reno, Nevada, May 10 – 15. Over 1,500 of the best and brightest high school students from 56 countries and territories competed.
Randy Ray and Leslie Young were awarded first place in plant science in the team division for the second year in a row, with their project entitled “Transforming Ipomoea batatas via Direct Inoculation with Agrobacterium rhizogenes, a Continuation.”
Huh? Well, basically these two student scientists have worked at the Danforth Plant Science Center for over two years conducting novel research on genetically engineering sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) in the lab of Dr. Chris Taylor, and with the help of science teacher Jennifer Berendzen. They have created a method that uses Agrobacterium rhizogenes to insert specific genes into the genome of the sweet potato.
Using their method, it could be possible to do things like alter the sweet potato to have a higher level of folic acid, and potentially reduce the number of birth defects in third world countries. Their method can create entire transgenic plants, and could have important applications that go far beyond the modest sweet potato.
They are also working on getting a patent for their process, and Monsanto has already expressed an interest.
“As important as the research, are the great experiences I’ve had along the way,” said Randy,” and Ms. Berendzen is the greatest research mentor ever!”
For her part, Jennifer Berendzen added, “I don’t know how I’m ever going to top this experience, they are two of the brightest people I have ever met, and we’ve had some great adventures.”
The team won $3,000 in scholarship money for their efforts, and both have serious plans for college.
“I’m attending UMKC in the fall and getting a double major in Spanish and Biology,” said Leslie. “I’d like to work in developing countries on improving agriculture, and maybe join the Peace Corps after college.”
Randy will be attending NYU where he also plans on a double major, Biochemistry and Pre-Med. “I’d like to be a doctor, and open research hospitals in different parts of the world,” said Randy.
Copyright 2009 Neighbors About Town
