From Door Knobs to Phone Screens: Identifying Microbial Contaminants in Daily Life
Michigan State University’s Nano-Biosensors Lab will demonstrate the processes used to isolate and detect microbial contaminants. This will be done through presenting bacterial strains in petri dishes. The color, size, and grouping are different for each species of bacteria. Swabs of everyday objects like phones, doorknobs, or bathroom stalls will also be grown on petri dishes. This will allow people to identify which microbes they encounter daily and the differences in their appearance. Additionally, the demonstration will include the process of using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and gold nanoparticles (GNPs) to capture and detect the presence of bacterial contaminants present in everyday encounters. The MNPs allow for the capturing of bacteria through its magnetic properties. The colorimetric properties of GNPs allow for detection of target bacteria.
Presented by:
- Kaily Kao, Lab Manager, Biosystems Engineering, MSU
- James Franco, Graduate Assistant, Biosystems Engineering, MSU
- Josie Cayen, Professorial Assistant, Biosystems Engineering, MSU
- Kate Heinecke, Professorial Assistant, Biosystems Engineering, MSU
- Leah Wilson, Professorial Assistant, Biosystems Engineering, MSU
Suggested for ages: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, 18 years and above
Scientific Disciplines:
- Engineering and Technology
For more information:
Time and Location
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4/14/2024 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Room 1202