Regulating Cow Methane Production with Methane Monooxygenase Producing E. Coli
Department
Biological Sciences
Major
Biological Sciences
Research Advisor
Westenberg, David J.
Shannon, Katie
Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Second Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Abstract
Research has shown strong evidence that greenhouse gases are accountable for the steady increase in temperatures around the world. Methane is among the most notable of the greenhouse gases and is heavily produced through the eructation of livestock, specifically cattle. Current research supports the approach of introducing methane monooxygenase producing E. coli, encapsulated in alginate beads, into the intestinal tract of cows to break down methane before it gets to the rumen. Our adaptation considers the negative effects of breaking down methane by which methanol is created as a byproduct. Methanol, in high enough quantity, can be toxic to the cow, so we look to better control the reaction by having a limiting feature around levels of methanol. With the methanol better regulated, the methane can be both broken down to help eliminate a portion of greenhouse gases, and the cow’s health can be better ensured.
Biography
Jordan Powell is a junior in Biological Sciences. She participates in various activities on campus including being a PRO-Leader, theater and a member of Christian Campus Fellowship. She plans to graduate with a Bachelor of Sciences and pursue a career in field biology.
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
Regulating Cow Methane Production with Methane Monooxygenase Producing E. Coli
Upper Atrium/Hallway
Research has shown strong evidence that greenhouse gases are accountable for the steady increase in temperatures around the world. Methane is among the most notable of the greenhouse gases and is heavily produced through the eructation of livestock, specifically cattle. Current research supports the approach of introducing methane monooxygenase producing E. coli, encapsulated in alginate beads, into the intestinal tract of cows to break down methane before it gets to the rumen. Our adaptation considers the negative effects of breaking down methane by which methanol is created as a byproduct. Methanol, in high enough quantity, can be toxic to the cow, so we look to better control the reaction by having a limiting feature around levels of methanol. With the methanol better regulated, the methane can be both broken down to help eliminate a portion of greenhouse gases, and the cow’s health can be better ensured.
Comments
Joint Project with Justin Carollo