Most high school students read about science research in text books. Recent high school graduate Sarina Farb, 18, has already conducted her own research.
For the past two years the Lecompton, Kan., home schooler has researched the effects of Bisphernoal A, commonly referred to as BPA, and Bisphernoal S, BPS, on breast cancer cells.
Sarina worked with University of Kansas professor Kristi Neufeld, in the university’s science lab.
BPA, found in plastic and cash register receipt paper, has hormone-like properties. Studies have linked BPA to an increased risk of breast cancer tumors. In response to these studies some companies opt to use products that do not contain BPA.
“I found out that all of the replacements were BPS,” Sarina said.
For instance the Lawrence Public Library and Community Mercentile in Lawrence have switched to receipts that contain BPS.
Sarina said she could not find research on the hormonal properties of BPS and its effects on breast cancer cells So she set out to conduct the research herself.
Sarina contacted Neufeld to gain access to a lab at KU.
Once in the lab, Sarina injected various levels of estrogen, BPA and BPS in breast cancer cells. She said her goal was to determine the effect each compound had on the breast cancer cells.
“I used different amounts (of each compound) that were environmentally relevant,” Sarina said.
Sarina’s study concluded that BPA-free options are not a safer option when it comes to breast cancer prevention.
“BPS actually caused more breast cancer growth than the BPA, sometimes more than the estrogen itself,” Sarina said.
Sarina presented her findings at the Kansas City Science Fair this spring where she received first place in the Senior Monocular Biology contest and was named the Pioneer in Science Grand Award Winner.
Sarina competed in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Pittsburgh where she received a third place prize from the National Endocrine Society.
Sarina also won the local and regional Kansas Biogenius Challenge and got first place at the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium.
“I really don’t know what the future will bring but I know I definitely want to continue scientific research,” Sarina said.
Sarina plans to continue her science studies at Grinnell College, where she received a full-ride scholarship.
“I found out in December,” Sarina said. “First I found out that I was accepted and two days later I found out that I got a full scholarship.”
Sarina is the daughter of Joe and JoAnn Farb. She is the granddaughter of Bernie and Judy Fremerman and the late Jack and Shirley Farb.
Sarina’s parents said they are proud of her accomplishments in the science competitions.
“It’s been fun,” JoAnn said. “I’m really excited that she’s going to be able to go to a school like Grinnell.