The Growth Rate of Lactobacillus acidophilus in Microgravity was selected for flight!!
Co-Principal Investigators : Miguel Velaz (11), Victoria Holbert (11), Kayla Nolette (11), and Leighton Noel (11)
Teacher Facilitator: Paula deDiego, Chemisty Teacher
Proposal Summary:
Here on earth there is a large issue concerned with dental caries (tooth decay). The bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus is the main cause to this issue, the bacteria combine with the proteins in the oral cavity which form a substance called plaque. Once the bacteria complete their feeding stage on the remains of food in the mouth they excrete lactic acid which dissolve the calcium and enamel on the teeth in the mouth. This process results in tooth decay.
The Lactobacillus acidophilus can be commonly found in the decayed tooth, the reason behind this is due to the fact that the outer enamel structure has been eroded away. Once the Lactobacillus settles in the dentin it accelerates the decaying process drastically. If gone untreated this could lead to the death of the nerve and blood vessels in the tooth.
We will test the growth rate of the Lactobacillus acidophilus and determine whether these bacteria reproduce at a more accelerated rate on earth or in microgravity. We will first begin by cultivating the Lactobacillus bacteria by combining the bacteria and tryptic agar (liquid) together in various concentrations. When the bacteria return from microgravity we will determine whether the bacteria reproduced more efficiently in space or on Earth.
Honorable Mention Finalists:
Acceleration of Porphyridium Reproduction on the Presence of a Magnetic Field with a Microgravity Environment
Co-Principal Investigators: Benjamin Buckland (12), Hunter Manley (10), Robin Murray (12), and Robert Labier (12)
HeLa Cell Growth in Microgavity
Co-Principal Investigators: Dominika Anna (10), Kaylee Nobrega (10), and Griffin Smith (10)
Congratulations Students!!
