Research Projects
Building Genetic Tools for Enzyme Studies
2023
The first project involved creating and testing custom DNA tools, called plasmids, to study these enzymes. By inserting modified genes into bacteria, I enabled them to produce the enzymes of interest. I verified the success of these modifications through DNA tests like PCR and sequencing and archived the successful constructs in long-term glycerol stocks for future use. These tools became the foundation for the rest of my research, enabling controlled enzyme production.
Producing & Purifying Enzymes
2023
The second project focused on producing and purifying CaMDH and PgMDH to study their properties. I grew bacteria under controlled conditions and used a chemical signal to induce the production of these enzymes. Afterward, I purified the enzymes through various techniques that separated them from other bacterial components. The quality of the purified enzymes was confirmed using lab methods like gel electrophoresis. These pure enzyme samples allowed me to conduct detailed functional studies.
Studying Enzyme Behavior
2024
In the third project, I explored how these enzymes interact with various molecules, including natural substrates and potential inhibitors. Through experiments and computer models, I tested how well the enzymes worked and how they were affected by different substances. This research provided valuable insights into their function and potential as drug targets, offering implications for developing new treatments for bacterial and fungal interactions in the oral microbiome.
