Ongoing Development of an Anti-sporulation Media and the Methodology to Efficiently Quantify Spores

Authors

Jared Balaich, Brigham Young University
Dr. Richard Robison, Brigham Young University

Keywords

anti-sporulation media, quantify spores, human host

College

Life Sciences

Department

Microbiology and Molecular Biology

Abstract

Spore forming bacteria are of great medical importance because of their ability to infect, and sustain infection in the human host. A spore consists of the bacterium’s DNA surrounded by thick membranes and is resistant to desiccation, disinfectants, radiation. The spore can then form a living bacterium after remaining dormant for thousands or even millions of years. Although much is now known about the structure and pathways involved in spore formation, much mystery remains around exactly what triggers spore formation to occur. The focus of this research project is to culture spore forming bacteria on medias of differing composition and then to identify which ingredients, or the lack thereof, cause an increase or decrease in the levels of sporulation.

Recommended Citation

Balaich, Jared and Robison, Dr. Richard (2013) "Ongoing Development of an Anti-sporulation Media and the Methodology to Efficiently Quantify Spores," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1268.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1268