Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Paulina Slick, Junior Maria Tobarra, Sophomore
Lead Presenter's Name
Paulina Slick
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Hugo Castillo
Abstract
Bacteria flourish in stressful environments when communicating with each other in a process known as Quorum Sensing. This process is accomplished by the production of small signaling molecules referred to as Autoinducers (AI). This communication allows the bacteria to alter their gene expression in an effort to regulate their cell number, behavior and sense the surrounding environment. The space environment provides stressful conditions for bacteria as they are exposed to radiation and microgravity (µG). Because of this, it could be possible that bacteria become more virulent and resistant to antibiotics. The purpose of this research was to expose Vibrio fischeri to simulated microgravity for its ability to produce AI and measure their quantity. The methods used include measurement of fluorescence via microbial biosensors (genetically modified microorganisms) that activate gene expression of markers once a specific autoinducer is detected, readings are recorded (using a microplate reader) and graphed. Results have demonstrated increased AI production and altered colony morphology under simulated microgravity.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
Yes, SURF
Assessing bacterial quorum sensing through measuring bioluminescence with Vibrio fischeri exposed to simulated microgravity
Bacteria flourish in stressful environments when communicating with each other in a process known as Quorum Sensing. This process is accomplished by the production of small signaling molecules referred to as Autoinducers (AI). This communication allows the bacteria to alter their gene expression in an effort to regulate their cell number, behavior and sense the surrounding environment. The space environment provides stressful conditions for bacteria as they are exposed to radiation and microgravity (µG). Because of this, it could be possible that bacteria become more virulent and resistant to antibiotics. The purpose of this research was to expose Vibrio fischeri to simulated microgravity for its ability to produce AI and measure their quantity. The methods used include measurement of fluorescence via microbial biosensors (genetically modified microorganisms) that activate gene expression of markers once a specific autoinducer is detected, readings are recorded (using a microplate reader) and graphed. Results have demonstrated increased AI production and altered colony morphology under simulated microgravity.