Breaking Plaque

Presenter Information

Heather McCoy

Department

Biological Sciences

Major

Biological Sciences

Research Advisor

Shannon, Katie
Westenberg, David J.

Advisor's Department

Biological Sciences

Second Advisor's Department

Biological Sciences

Funding Source

Imagination

Abstract

The purpose of the project is to create an E.coli strain with the ability to break down the plaque buildup around teeth. The main goal is to inhibit the bacteria from grouping together to form the biofilm. Therefore, the main target of the device will be the variety of gram-positive bacteria found in the mouth and the gooey, polysaccharide layer that they create. The biofilm is built through quorum sensing and our strain of E.coli will contain an enzyme that prohibits the peptides from working as sensors that signal other bacteria. Once the targets are unable to bind to each other, we will further the efficiency by breaking down the cell walls, and will attempt to lyse the cells. Lastly, the device will release a minty smell that allows the user to know their mouth cleaning has been completed for the time being.

Biography

Delaney DeJanes and Heather McCoy are seniors in Biological Sciences. They will graduate in December 2016 with their bachelor’s degree from the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Delaney hopes to build on her interest in Biomedical Engineering by doing projects that improve the body and working with prosthetics to restore bodily functions. Heather will begin a career as an officer in the United States Army upon graduation.

Research Category

Research Proposals

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Document Type

Poster

Location

Upper Atrium/Hallway

Presentation Date

11 Apr 2016, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Comments

Joint project with Delaney DeJanes

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Apr 11th, 1:00 PM Apr 11th, 3:00 PM

Breaking Plaque

Upper Atrium/Hallway

The purpose of the project is to create an E.coli strain with the ability to break down the plaque buildup around teeth. The main goal is to inhibit the bacteria from grouping together to form the biofilm. Therefore, the main target of the device will be the variety of gram-positive bacteria found in the mouth and the gooey, polysaccharide layer that they create. The biofilm is built through quorum sensing and our strain of E.coli will contain an enzyme that prohibits the peptides from working as sensors that signal other bacteria. Once the targets are unable to bind to each other, we will further the efficiency by breaking down the cell walls, and will attempt to lyse the cells. Lastly, the device will release a minty smell that allows the user to know their mouth cleaning has been completed for the time being.