Event Title
Location
Parker-Reed, SSWAC
Start Date
1-5-2014 9:00 AM
End Date
1-5-2014 10:00 AM
Project Type
Poster
Description
Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are a group of bacteria that synthesize magnetosomes, magnetic crystals of magnetite (Fe304) or greigite (FeS4), which allow MTB to travel along the earths geomagnetic fields. In addition, MTB have been shown to be promising agents for bioremediation through their ability to absorb heavy metals, such as gold. Little is known of the genetic elements that allow for the biosynthesis of magnetic particles in MTB. In this study, genes MamB and MamM, genes known to be involved in magnetosome formation but whose functions are not known, were studied using the magnetotactic bacteria Magnetospirillum magneticum. Genomic DNA was extracted from M. magneticum, primers for MamB and MamM were designed, and these genes were amplified via PCR. PCR products were inserted into expression vectors and used to transform E. coli. The ability of E. coli transformed with MamB and MamM to absorb gold from solution is examined in this study.
Faculty Sponsor
Ron Peck
Sponsoring Department
Colby College. Biology Dept.
CLAS Field of Study
Natural Sciences
Event Website
http://www.colby.edu/clas
ID
785
Included in
MamB and MamM: Genes Involved in Magnetotaxis
Parker-Reed, SSWAC
Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are a group of bacteria that synthesize magnetosomes, magnetic crystals of magnetite (Fe304) or greigite (FeS4), which allow MTB to travel along the earths geomagnetic fields. In addition, MTB have been shown to be promising agents for bioremediation through their ability to absorb heavy metals, such as gold. Little is known of the genetic elements that allow for the biosynthesis of magnetic particles in MTB. In this study, genes MamB and MamM, genes known to be involved in magnetosome formation but whose functions are not known, were studied using the magnetotactic bacteria Magnetospirillum magneticum. Genomic DNA was extracted from M. magneticum, primers for MamB and MamM were designed, and these genes were amplified via PCR. PCR products were inserted into expression vectors and used to transform E. coli. The ability of E. coli transformed with MamB and MamM to absorb gold from solution is examined in this study.
https://digitalcommons.colby.edu/clas/2014/program/347