Exploring the effects of Environmental variables on the Growth of Opportunistic Bacteroides Members

Alongside Dr. Ana Maria Porras and Karen Mancera-Azamar, we have been investigating how changes in the intestinal environment during inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affect the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components by Bacteroides species, which are among the most abundant bacteria in the gut microbiome. Our research focuses on how variations in pH and nutritional sources influence microbial growth and protease activity, aiming to understand the role of bacterial enzymes in ECM remodeling and IBD progression.

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This experience introduced me to basic laboratory techniques and the proper use of laboratory equipment, with a primary focus on bacteria culturing.