Burkholderia Ability to Cross Stinkbug Constricted Region

The goal of the research is to determine which genes in microbes of the genus Burkholderia allow them to cross a barrier in stinkbug guts which blocks any other microbes. Mutant clones of the microorganism will be prepared to deactivate genes suspected of playing a role in allowing passage of Burkholderia in the gut. These mutants will then be fluorescenty labeled and inoculated in a host bean bug. The fluorescence has for goal to easily record the spreading of the microbes in their host. Mutants which will be unable to cross the barier will indicate that said gene plays a pivotal role in allowing passage of Burkholderia to regions of the gut posetrior to the barrier. The relationship between Burkholderia and stinkbugs enhances both of their survival.
Understanding this relationship is therefore crucial tool to deal with stinkbug, who are an important agricultural pest.

Faculty Supervisor:

Emma Despland

Student:

Partner:

Hokkaido University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture; Education

University:

Concordia University

Program: