Honors Projects

Abstract

Bacteriophages are viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria and offer the potential of a therapeutic alternative to chronic infections that do not respond to antibiotic-based therapies. B. vietnamiensis is one of a number of Burkholderia species involved with chronic drug resistant infections in the lungs of individuals with compromised respiratory systems, as found in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and, most especially, are of particular significance in patients with cystic fibrosis. The diversity of the Burkholderia species is explored by using online databases and looking at bacteriophage or phage-encoding viruses found in B. vietnamiensis. The open reading frames of isolates found online and an isolate discovered in lab are examined by creating phylogenetic trees and comparing the relationships of bacteriophage. The discovery of bacteriophage can possibly help patients with chronic bacteria-resistant infections and help battle the world issue of antiboitic resistance.

Department

Biological Sciences

Major

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Raymond Larsen

First Advisor Department

Biological Sciences

Second Advisor

Dr. Nathan Hensley

Second Advisor Department

Environment and Sustainability

Publication Date

Spring 4-26-2022

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