Graduation Year
2024
Graduation Month
May
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
School or Department
Biological Sciences, Division of
Major
Biology – Human Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor
Brian Bothner
Keywords
Biochemistry, Escherichia coli, lipids, cell wall, membrane, MALDI-MS
Subject Categories
Biochemistry | Cell Anatomy | Cell Biology
Abstract
Escherichia coli is a highly studied model organism that is tightly tied to the mammalian gastrointestinal system. This microorganism has the capability to be a beneficial gut microbe or a life-threatening pathogen. In this study, the lipid membrane of Escherichia coli was investigated using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to observe the change in its composition in aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Evidence of desaturation was discovered in the spectra, though more investigation is needed to understand the metabolic processes and drives that result in this change. Elucidation of these pathways in the future could result in more targeted treatment of Escherichia coli infections. To accompany this study, a literature review of current and past knowledge of Escherichia coli was conducted, including information on its discovery, environmental adaptation and pathogenicity.
Honors College Research Project
1
GLI Capstone Project
no
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Isabelle, "Assessing Lipid Composition of Cell Membrane in Escherichia Coli Under Aerobic and Anaerobic Conditions" (2024). Undergraduate Theses, Professional Papers, and Capstone Artifacts. 448.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/utpp/448
Included in
Biochemistry Commons, Cell Anatomy Commons, Cell Biology Commons
© Copyright 2024 Isabelle Johnson