This week on Spotlight, women in science are leading groundbreaking discoveries that are saving lives and reshaping the future of medicine and technology. A Saint Louis University computer scientist empowers travelers to help fight human trafficking with a simple hotel room photo through the TraffickCam app. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reveal promising results from a new nano-medicine delivered through nasal drops that eliminated deadly brain tumors in lab models, offering hope in the fight against Glioblastoma. During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Women’s History Month, we also spotlight a female scientist behind an RNA-based screening test designed to make early detection of Colorectal Cancer easier and more accessible. Plus, a biotech team is using CRISPR gene editing technology to stop a destructive invasive fruit fly threatening U.S. crops. From protecting vulnerable people to advancing cancer detection and treatment, these innovators show how science is tackling some of the world’s toughest challenges.

Tracking Human Trafficking
Artificial intelligence developed for the TraffickCam app can help rescue victims of human trafficking.

Nasal Drops for Fighting Deadly Brain Tumors
Nasal drops with a novel nano-sized medicine are shown to eradicate deadly brain tumors in mouse models with glioblastoma.

Fighting Colorectal Cancer with a Screening Tool for Stool
Dr. Erica Barnell is recognized for being an inspiration in March in honor of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Women’s History Month.

Battling Invasive Fruit Flies
“It’s here now. Wherever you see berries being grown, you find the spotted wing drosophila infesting fruit,” said Stephanie Gamez, R&D Director at Agragene.