Relatedness of Bacteriophages Infecting Mycobacterium Smegmatis

Advisor(s)

Dr. Crystal Randall; Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

Discipline

Biology

Start Date

21-4-2021 10:45 AM

End Date

21-4-2021 11:05 AM

Abstract

In the last few decades, more research has been conducted on bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, and the potential of phage therapy to serve as an alternative to antibiotics. Because phage therapy has high specificity, lower chance of resistance, and minimal disturbance to “good” bacteria, it appears to be a worthy alternative. However, greater research must be conducted in order to determine their effectiveness. Areas for research on phages include proper dosage, immune system reactions, and efficiency. This research project specifically examines mycobacteriophages and mycobacterium which can cause leprosy and tuberculosis. A deeper examination of mycobacteriophages and their protein sequences, virulence, and relationships with mycobacterium and other phages will serve to create a better understanding of how these phages can fight against infectious diseases. Phage and bacteria sequences are obtained from the NCBI and Actinobacteriophage database and compared via platforms including T-Coffee and BoxShade. This project examines the tRNA found in phages and their hosts to better understand their virulence and evolutionary changes. As new diseases arise and the effectiveness of antibiotics becomes challenged by various factors, increased knowledge regarding phages and their potential is crucial.

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Apr 21st, 10:45 AM Apr 21st, 11:05 AM

Relatedness of Bacteriophages Infecting Mycobacterium Smegmatis

In the last few decades, more research has been conducted on bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, and the potential of phage therapy to serve as an alternative to antibiotics. Because phage therapy has high specificity, lower chance of resistance, and minimal disturbance to “good” bacteria, it appears to be a worthy alternative. However, greater research must be conducted in order to determine their effectiveness. Areas for research on phages include proper dosage, immune system reactions, and efficiency. This research project specifically examines mycobacteriophages and mycobacterium which can cause leprosy and tuberculosis. A deeper examination of mycobacteriophages and their protein sequences, virulence, and relationships with mycobacterium and other phages will serve to create a better understanding of how these phages can fight against infectious diseases. Phage and bacteria sequences are obtained from the NCBI and Actinobacteriophage database and compared via platforms including T-Coffee and BoxShade. This project examines the tRNA found in phages and their hosts to better understand their virulence and evolutionary changes. As new diseases arise and the effectiveness of antibiotics becomes challenged by various factors, increased knowledge regarding phages and their potential is crucial.