The Use of Nanoparticles and Bioglass in Inhibiting Legi
Department
Biological Sciences
Major
Biology
Research Advisor
Westenberg, David J.
Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Funding Source
OURE Fellows and EPA
Abstract
Legionnaires' disease is a form of pneumonia caused by coming into contact with Legionella pneumophila. Exposure typically occurs when humans use showerheads, sink faucets, or large plumbing systems that the bacterium has colonized. This public health crisis has led researchers to find ways to help eradicate Legionella from these water systems, however many of the current methods are not sufficient in preventing recolonization and can lead to corrosion of water pipes. Given this, the project at hand aims to use two different methods to tackle this issue. The first method involves testing copper nanoparticles as a viable alternative to these solutions by determining the concentration and ideal size of nanoparticles needed to kill the bacteria. Additionally, we will use bioglass doped with anti-bacterial metals to test its effectiveness in inhibiting biofilm formation by the bacteria. All studies will be conducted using an avirulent strain of the bacteria (LP02).
Biography
Gabrielle Hightower is a junior from Kansas City, Missouri majoring in Biology and Psychology. She has participated in Missouri S&T's FYRE, OURE, and OURE Fellows programs as well as the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. She plans on sing this experience once she graduates to obtain her PhD and conduct research. When she is not conducting research, she is an active member of Chi Omega, Missouri S&T Ballet and Dance Club, Blue Key, and SCRUBS.
Presentation Type
OURE Fellows Proposal Oral Applicant
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Missouri Room
Presentation Date
14 Apr 2021, 10:00 am - 10:30 am
The Use of Nanoparticles and Bioglass in Inhibiting Legi
Missouri Room
Legionnaires' disease is a form of pneumonia caused by coming into contact with Legionella pneumophila. Exposure typically occurs when humans use showerheads, sink faucets, or large plumbing systems that the bacterium has colonized. This public health crisis has led researchers to find ways to help eradicate Legionella from these water systems, however many of the current methods are not sufficient in preventing recolonization and can lead to corrosion of water pipes. Given this, the project at hand aims to use two different methods to tackle this issue. The first method involves testing copper nanoparticles as a viable alternative to these solutions by determining the concentration and ideal size of nanoparticles needed to kill the bacteria. Additionally, we will use bioglass doped with anti-bacterial metals to test its effectiveness in inhibiting biofilm formation by the bacteria. All studies will be conducted using an avirulent strain of the bacteria (LP02).
