Shining light on food microbiology; applications of luciferase-tagged microorganisms in the food industry
Loading...
Files
Date
2013
Authors
Morrissey, Ruth M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University College Cork
Published Version
Abstract
Bioluminescence is the production of light by living organisms as a result of a number of enzyme catalysed reactions caused by enzymes termed luciferases. The lux genes responsible for the emission of light can be cloned from one bioluminescent microorganism into one that is not bioluminescent. The light emitted can be monitored and quantified and will provide information on the metabolic activity, quantity and location of cells in a particular environment, in real-time. The primary aim of this thesis was to investigate and identify several food industry related applications of lux-tagged microorganisms. The first aim was to monitor a lux-tagged Cronobacter sakazakii in reconstituted infant milk formula, in realtime. The second aim was to investigate a bioluminescent-based early warning system for starter culture disruption by bacteriophages and antibiotic residues. The third of this thesis was to examine the use of a bioluminescent-based assay to test the activity of bioengineered Nisin derivatives M21V and S29A against foodborne pathogens in laboratory media and selected foods.
Description
Keywords
Luciferase
Citation
Morrissey, R. M. 2013. Shining light on food microbiology; applications of luciferase-tagged microorganisms in the food industry. PhD Thesis, University College Cork.