Algal Research Project

For my research project this semester, I wanted to do something regarding algae with a focus on genetics. So, I came up with a toxicity bioassay based on J.I. Nirmal Kumar's study, "Toxicity analysis of pesticides on cyanobacterial species by 16s rDNA molecular characterization."

Once I isolate single colonies of my algal species, Nannochloropsis sp. and Arthrospira platensis, I will do a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) of the 16s RNA gene. Then I will subject the cultures to increasing amount of foliar pesticide, tebuconazole, similar to Kumar's study. However, I will be using a home use formula of the same brand, Kumar used a commercial agriculture formulation. The idea is to continue doing a PCR and record any mutations in the RNA structure; such as insertions, deletions or mismatching of base pairs.

Here are a few photos of the starter cultures.

citation: Kumar, J.I. Nirmal, et al. "Toxicity analysis of pesticides on cyanobacterial species by 16s rDNA molecular characterization." Proceedings of the International Academy of Ecology and Environmental Sciences 3.2 (2013)

Glad to be Back

Hi everybody! It feels really good to be back and I hope to hit the ground running, so to speak. I have decided to do my project on the toxicity of pesticides on cyanobacterial species; in this case Nannochloropsis and Arthrospira aka Spirulina. Matt has already ordered the cultures, so hopefully things go smoothly while I try to grow my cyanobacteria. Since it may not work out, I may do a back up project concerning algae. I'm not sure what at this point, so cross your fingers for me! I look forward to seeing you all at orientation Friday. Here's to a great semester! :)

Photo: http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/bacteria/spirulina.jpg