Master's Theses

Department

Biology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Triclosan is a multi-purpose biocide that is used in many personal care products, including antibacterial hand soaps and toothpastes. The wide usage of triclosan fosters its dispersal into the enviro11l11ent, which might contribute to the ability of microorganisms to become resistant to triclosan in addition to certain other biocides and clinical antibiotics. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether long-term exposure of two strains of Staphylococcal epide]'midis to subinhibitory concentrations of triclosan would select for resistant mutants, and whether their ability to form polysaccharide biofilms lends to this resistance. This study also aimed to determine whether a mutation in the triclosan target was responsible for resistance, and to determine whether these mutants could exhibit cross-resistance to chlorhexidine and clinical antibiotics. In addition, efflux capability was assessed as a presumable resistance mechanism.

Keywords

Staphylococcus epidermidis, Triclosan, ampicillin, tetracycline, efflux

Advisor

Dr. Eric Gillock

Date of Award

Summer 2012

Document Type

Thesis

Rights

© The Author(s)

Comments

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