A low-cost, hands-on module to characterize antimicrobial compounds using an interdisciplinary, biophysical approach.

ABSTRACT: We have developed a hands-on experimental module that combines biology experiments with a physics-based analytical model in order to characterize antimicrobial compounds. To understand antibiotic resistance, participants perform a disc diffusion assay to test the antimicrobial activity of different compounds and then apply a diffusion-based analytical model to gain insights into the behavior of the active antimicrobial component. In our experience, this module was robust, reproducible, and cost-effective, suggesting that it could be implemented in diverse settings such as undergraduate research, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) camps, school programs, and laboratory training workshops. By providing valuable interdisciplinary research experience in science outreach and educ

SUBMITTER: Kaushik KS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4300086 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature