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ORCID
https://orcid.org/0009-0003-5777-3493
Access Type
Open Access Thesis
Document Type
thesis
Embargo Period
4-3-2023
Degree Program
Microbiology
Degree Type
Master of Science (M.S.)
Year Degree Awarded
2023
Month Degree Awarded
May
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of bacterial infections has made it necessary to find novel methods of combatting the resistance of bacteria to conventional antibiotics. Mycobacterium abscessus is an increasingly prevalent pathogen that is intrinsically drug resistant, therefore difficult to treat. The use of phytochemicals as a source of alternate antibiotics has been explored, however, the poor solubility of phytochemicals in water makes it difficult to effectively deliver them to bacterial biofilms. In this study, I investigated the efficacy of nanosponge-emulsified phytochemicals in killing M. abscessus biofilms. The nanosponge technology was used to improve the solubility and stability of the phytochemicals, allowing for improved bioavailability. Results showed that the nanosponge-emulsified phytochemicals effectively reduced the viability of M. abscessus biofilms, compared to non-emulsified phytochemicals. The findings of this study contribute to a development of new strategies for the treatment of bacterial infections and demonstrate the potential of nanosponge-emulsified phytochemicals as a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/34700187
First Advisor
Yasu S. Morita
Second Advisor
Michele Klingbeil
Third Advisor
Sloan Siegrist
Recommended Citation
Albano, Casey, "Enhanced Killing of Mycobacterium abscessus by Nanosponge Delivery of Antimycobacterials" (2023). Masters Theses. 1321.
https://doi.org/10.7275/34700187
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/masters_theses_2/1321