Presenter: Nathan Buhler, College of Humanities and Life Sciences, Biology
Authors: Nathan Buhler, Daniel Cho, Christopher Gowans, Blake Harris, Brandon Buhler
Faculty Advisor: Olga Kopp, College of Life Sciences, Biology
Institution: Utah Valley University
Bacterial infections are difficult to treat with antibiotics because of the protective nature of the biofilms produced by bacteria. Biofilms are a common cause of in-hospital and medical device-related infections. The current treatments for biofilms include mechanically removing the biofilm itself or by treatments with antibiotics. Biofilms usually become resistant to drugs because of the higher frequency of horizontal gene transfer compared to planktonic cells. Liposomes are promising delivery systems because of their small size, surface characteristics and ability to encapsulate drugs and other molecules. Liposomal particles can slowly release the encapsulated drugs, increasing their distribution in targeted areas. Studies have shown that the fusion between liposomes and bacterial cells enhances the penetration of antibiotics. The purpose of this study is to form liposomes to encapsulate Gentamicin and treat biofilms with it. Liposomes will be formed using the thin film hydration method. This project will present an analysis of the use of different pore sizes in the extrusion process, and whether liposomes were used or not to present the antibiotic. This will allow us to determine exactly how effective these biological molecules are at carrying the antibiotic into the biofilm.