58th Annual STS (1998–1999)
Finalists
Eric David Stern

Eric David Stern, 17, of Great Neck, chose Alzheimer's disease for his Intel Science Talent Search project in medicine after a great aunt had become afflicted with the degenerative condition. Eric studied the mechanisms by which neurons in the brain are damaged and eventually killed—due, at least in part, to the accumulation of a protein fragment called amyloid beta-peptide (Ab). Building on research he began two years ago, he studied the mechanisms by which the enzyme ICAB contributes to Ab-induced cytotoxicity, focusing on the role of the enzyme's active site. He concludes that the enzymatic activity of ICAB is central to the cytotoxity observed in an Ab-rich environment. At Great Neck South High School, Eric is president and concertmaster of the marching band and has been principal clarinet in the school's symphony orchestra since ninth grade. Winner of many music, math and science awards, Eric serves as president of the science club, columnist for the school paper and helped found the applied engineering team. The son of Drs. David and Kathleen Stern, he hopes to attend Yale preparing for a career as a cardiac surgeon and researcher.

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