Low-Frequency Ultrasound Increases Outer Membrane Permeability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli

Authors

Christopher M. Runyan, Brigham Young University
Dr. William G. Pitt, Brigham Young University

Keywords

ultrasound, membrane permeability, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Chemical Engineering

Abstract

Our lab has investigated the use of low-frequency ultrasound as an adjuvant to antibacterial therapy. We have found that ultrasound can increase killing of certain combinations of antibiotics with bacteria. Ultrasound at very low frequencies, alone, may kill bacteria; however, these frequencies are harmful to other living tissues and can not be used in a clinical setting. While ultrasound does not kill bacteria at slightly higher frequencies, it can enhance antibiotic killing, a phenomenon known as the “bioacoustic effect.”

Recommended Citation

Runyan, Christopher M. and Pitt, Dr. William G. (2014) "Low-Frequency Ultrasound Increases Outer Membrane Permeability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 65.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/65