BTree: A Bacillus Thuringiensis Toxin Targeting EABs
Department
Biological Sciences
Major
Biological Sciences
Research Advisor
Westenberg, David J.
Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Funding Source
Missouri S&T Biology, Chemical Engineering and SDELC
Abstract
Since the year 2002, North American ash trees have been infected with and killed by an invasive beetle species known as Emerald Ash Borers (EAB). Current methods for prevention and treatment of EAB’s are expensive and inadequate. Our proposed long term solution is to develop Ash trees that are genetically resistant to EAB’s. From a known Bacillus thuringiensis Cry8Da protein, we hope to induce mutations in the protein’s receptor binding regions to create a Bt toxin specific for EAB’s. After screening modified proteins, we will utilize leaf-specific expression of the Cry Toxin in Arabidopsis thaliana as our model system for Ash trees. We hope to present this system for future development as a safe and effective alternative to current treatment methods used in affected areas.
Biography
Ryan Baumann is a Senior in Biological Sciences from Saint Louis, MO. He has spent all 8 semesters a member of the Missouri S&T International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Team. He has served as the Vice President, Lab Manager, and has assisted in the design and lab work of three individual year long projects. He is a Student Ambassador in the Missouri S&T Admissions Office, has worked two summer internships, and has served positions in the Helix Life Sciences Club.
Presentation Type
OURE Fellows Final Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Missouri Room
Presentation Date
16 Apr 2019, 9:00 am - 9:30 am
BTree: A Bacillus Thuringiensis Toxin Targeting EABs
Missouri Room
Since the year 2002, North American ash trees have been infected with and killed by an invasive beetle species known as Emerald Ash Borers (EAB). Current methods for prevention and treatment of EAB’s are expensive and inadequate. Our proposed long term solution is to develop Ash trees that are genetically resistant to EAB’s. From a known Bacillus thuringiensis Cry8Da protein, we hope to induce mutations in the protein’s receptor binding regions to create a Bt toxin specific for EAB’s. After screening modified proteins, we will utilize leaf-specific expression of the Cry Toxin in Arabidopsis thaliana as our model system for Ash trees. We hope to present this system for future development as a safe and effective alternative to current treatment methods used in affected areas.
Comments
Joint Project in conjunction with the Missouri S&T iGEM Team