Characterizing the influence of D-sorbitol on biofilm- and metabolism-related genes

Project Title

Characterizing the influence of D-sorbitol on biofilm- and metabolism-related genes

Faculty Mentor(s)

Project Description

Project Description: 

Biofilm is characterized by bacterial aggregation and the secretion of extracellular polymeric substances. Biofilm formation gives bacteria undesirable traits, such as antibiotic resistance. Knowing this, further examining the mechanisms behind biofilm growth is important. Our laboratory’s research focuses on the influence of different sugars on biofilm formation in P both planktonic and biofilm E coli cells. My research specifically examines how the sugar L-sorbitol alters the expression of biofilm-related genes, such as csgA and fimA. The presence of these genes is observed using qPCR, where the expression of a gene is measured with fluorescent chemicals. Additional parameters for this project include incubation at 37° C in a nutrient-rich broth (LB). Understanding how L-sorbitol modifies biofilm growth in E. coli could allow for better inhibition of biofilm growth.
 

Why is your research important?

While forming a biofilm is a survival reaction of many bacterial cells, its presence allows for antibiotic resistance. The presence of biofilm is detrimental for everyone, as antibiotics are used across a range of industries, from healthcare to agriculture. Understanding how L-sorbitol modifies biofilm growth in E. coli could allow for better inhibition of biofilm growth.
 

What does the process of doing your research look like?

Running a complete experiment takes about one week. On Mondays, I use the autoclave to sterilize items needed for my experiment and make a starter culture. Then, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are devoted to growing the biofilm and replacing its media. The intensive part of the experiment (cell harvesting, RNA purification, and qPCR) is done on Thursdays and Fridays. For the first week, Professor Ryno led me through the process, but after that, I slowly moved towards running experiments independently. Still, I often check in with her for the more complex procedures or when I need help.
 

What knowledge has your research contributed to your field?

At the end of the winter term, the data demonstrated that increased sorbitol concentrations resulted in increased biofilm gene expression, especially in biofilm cells. However, further replicates conducted during February and March suggest that this initial conclusion may be false and the original trial may have been contaminated.  
 

How did you get involved in research? What drove you to seek out research experiences in college?

I was able to pursue research through the STRONG program; this was my first research experience. I wanted to research at Oberlin as it was a hands-on way to engage with science.
 

What is your favorite aspect of the research process?

I enjoyed getting to know my lab mates. Regarding research, qPCR was initially challenging but extremely rewarding once I understood how everything worked.

 

How has working with your mentor impacted the development of your research project? How has it impacted you as a researcher?

My mentor designed my project based on what I was interested in. She was super invested in my growth and made my experience very enjoyable. I am considering an MD/Ph.D. path instead of just an MD due to my experience with her lab.
 

How has the research you’ve conducted contributed to your professional or academic development?  

Being able to do research this early in my career is an excellent opportunity. I feel that I am much more comfortable in a lab setting due to this research. In terms of academics, this experience has made me want to engage in more outside-of-class STEM activities.
 

What advice would you give to a younger student wanting to get involved in research in your field?

Joining a lab is worth your time. I have found the experience of joining a lab and doing research extremely rewarding. While it may be intimidating at first, the research experience is one of the best things you can get involved with at Oberlin.