Horseshoe Crabs: Medical Heroes

A FREE, family-friendly presentation that promises to be both fun and fascinating, especially for curious middle and high school scientists!

What’s It All About?
Did you know that horseshoe crabs are real-life medical heroes? These ancient creatures, called living fossils, have more to offer than their wild looks. Scientists actually use them to make biological pharmaceuticals.* So, what is the “secret sauce” that a horseshoe crab has that is used in the manufacture of medicines?

On August 10, Dr. Marcia Federici, Ph.D. will explain what makes their biology so special, and how we use genetic cloning and biotechnology to create life-saving drugs. You’ll even learn how scientists protect these crabs from being overused. Expect cool science facts, real-world applications, and maybe even a look into your future career in medicine or biology!

*Biological pharmaceuticals are different from small molecule drugs. They are manufactured in living systems like cells and are large and complex in size. Biotechnology has been used to clone protein molecules that were previously available only in short supply. In this module, we will discuss the elements of genetic cloning and the manufacture of biopharmaceuticals. We will present a case study of a protein product developed through biotechnology and how the horseshoe crab is used to ensure safety of the final product.

Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone who loves awesome science stories, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Bring friends and classmates. See you there!

RSVP by Clicking Here

P.S. Extra credit-worthy for science classes? Very likely.

*Presenter Bio: Dr. Marcia Federici was born in DuBois PA. She received her B.S. in biology from Mercyhurst College and then went on and earned her Ph.D. In biochemistry from West Virginia University. After completing a fellowship at the NIH, Dr. Federici worked in the biotechnology industry for 30 years. Her scientific area of expertise is in protein chemistry and the manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals. During her tenure in industry, Marcia held positions of increasing managerial responsibility and frequently negotiated with the FDA and other international regulatory agencies on product approval strategies. After her time in industry, Dr. Federici was a graduate professor at several universities teaching classes on biotechnology. Marcia now acts as a mentor to young scientists and participates as a judge in the North Museum Science and Engineering Fair.

LET YOUR INNER SCIENTIST COME OUT TO PLAY™