Lab Safety

Safety precautions were of utmost importance in our wet lab procedures. We received comprehensive safety training, which encompassed proper microbiological practices, waste disposal procedures, and accident handling protocols. We were introduced to the equipment we would be using and received thorough guidance on the potential hazards associated with commonly used chemicals. Additionally, we were educated on how to effectively respond to accidents and spills.

Adherence to the laboratory dress code was strictly enforced. This code mandated wearing closed-toe shoes, full-length pants, gloves, and a lab coat while observing experiments. Lab coats were stored in a designated drawer within the lab to prevent any potential contamination. These measures were put in place to minimize any personal risks and to prevent accidental release of microorganisms into the surrounding environment.

Our vigilant attention extended to waste management as well. We were acutely aware that improper waste disposal could lead to the release of microbes and hazardous chemicals into the environment as a result of experiments.

The microbiological assay played a pivotal role during our brief tenure in the laboratory, which is why we placed such emphasis on establishing these protocols. We consistently employed aseptic techniques in our experiments to ensure the reproducibility of our findings and to prevent any potential microbial contamination. All of our microbiological procedures were conducted within a biosafety cabinet, with an added layer of precaution involving the use of a flame to prevent the release of E. coli.

Particular attention was given to safety measures when handling substances like ethidium bromide during electrophoresis due to its carcinogenic properties. We exercised extreme caution during gel extraction, wearing specialized glasses, masks, double gloves, and lab coats to protect against UV radiation exposure. Each workstation was meticulously disinfected with 70% ethanol both before and after every experiment.

When working with microorganisms, we utilized nitrile gloves to shield our hands. Additionally, we were conscientious about the responsible disposal of living microorganisms. Used Petri dishes underwent autoclaving before being discarded, and any liquid cultures were incubated overnight with a potent chlorine/soap solution prior to disposal.

The safety of our research took precedence in our choice of chassis and organisms. Hence, we opted for E. coli BL21, a widely used engineered laboratory microorganism with no potential for human pathogenicity.

Our final product will be a biological biocide, with the major components being antimicrobial peptides. Currently, we are working with tachyplesin. Natural tachyplesin has hemolytic properties, so we have implemented safety precautions. Most of our insert sequences include the sfGFP protein, which fluoresces. Therefore, we use gloves and adhere to the appropriate lab dress code to protect ourselves, while the presence of tachyplesin on the laboratory bench can be detected with blue light due to GFP fluorescence.Furthermore, our future steps involve working with analogs of tachyplesin, specifically I11S and Y8S, which have significantly reduced hemolytic properties. GFP will be utilized in all insert sequences containing other antimicrobial peptides that we plan to produce in the future.

Furthermore, our future steps involve working with analogs of tachyplesin, specifically I11S and Y8S, which have significantly reduced hemolytic properties. Regardless, the final product will be handled by specialized personnel who will wear protective robes, masks, and gloves during application.