Through The Grapevine
Department
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Major
Biochemical Engineering
Research Advisor
Westenberg, David J.
Shannon, Katie
Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Abstract
Japanese beetles (JB), or Popilia japonica, are sweeping away agricultural crops across the nation. With grapes having a high value in the food industry, such as jellies, wine, and the raw product themselves, it is vital to protect these crops from this invasive beetle. A store bought lure can deter a small population, but on a larger scale, such as a 100 acre vineyard, it is not cost efficient or effective. A natural pesticide, B. thuringiensis (Bt), found in fertile earth is known to be a predator of the Japanese beetle. Using genetic engineering, predictions have been made that the Bt toxin gene can be introduce the into the grapes, then expressing the gene through the leaves will lead to a biological pesticide, controlling the infestation. Successful completion of this project will prevent millions of dollars' worth of damage and a more permanent solution to protect vineyards country wide.
Biography
Justin is in his third year at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He is studying Biochemical Engineering and pursuing a minor in Biology. He is a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, in Undergraduate Research, a member of the Missouri S& T Jazz Band, and a Photographer for Rollamo Yearbook. His plans for after graduation are hopefully starting his career working for Monsanto, Environ or Anheuser Busch.
Research Category
Sciences
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Upper Atrium/Hallway
Presentation Date
03 Apr 2013, 9:00 am - 11:45 am
Through The Grapevine
Upper Atrium/Hallway
Japanese beetles (JB), or Popilia japonica, are sweeping away agricultural crops across the nation. With grapes having a high value in the food industry, such as jellies, wine, and the raw product themselves, it is vital to protect these crops from this invasive beetle. A store bought lure can deter a small population, but on a larger scale, such as a 100 acre vineyard, it is not cost efficient or effective. A natural pesticide, B. thuringiensis (Bt), found in fertile earth is known to be a predator of the Japanese beetle. Using genetic engineering, predictions have been made that the Bt toxin gene can be introduce the into the grapes, then expressing the gene through the leaves will lead to a biological pesticide, controlling the infestation. Successful completion of this project will prevent millions of dollars' worth of damage and a more permanent solution to protect vineyards country wide.
Comments
Joint Project with Tyler Herrell