Session

2025 Poster

Location

Brigham Young University Engineering Building, Provo, UT

Start Date

5-5-2025 9:55 AM

Description

This study focuses on the construction of a plasmid harboring biphenyl (BPH) genes, with the aim of enabling potential degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Optimization experiments were conducted to enhance PCR amplification and assembly efficiency. PCR conditions were refined using a primer concentration gradient and by varying magnesium chloride levels through adjustments in reaction buffer volume, resulting in improved specificity and yield. Six BPH gene fragments were successfully litigated into the pSHDY vector using Gibson Assembly, alongside a GA+ positive control. The resulting construct represents a foundational step toward engineering organisms capable of PCB biodegradation.

Available for download on Wednesday, May 06, 2026

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May 5th, 9:55 AM

Cracking the Code for PCB Cleanup: PCR Optimization Meets Synthetic Biology

Brigham Young University Engineering Building, Provo, UT

This study focuses on the construction of a plasmid harboring biphenyl (BPH) genes, with the aim of enabling potential degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Optimization experiments were conducted to enhance PCR amplification and assembly efficiency. PCR conditions were refined using a primer concentration gradient and by varying magnesium chloride levels through adjustments in reaction buffer volume, resulting in improved specificity and yield. Six BPH gene fragments were successfully litigated into the pSHDY vector using Gibson Assembly, alongside a GA+ positive control. The resulting construct represents a foundational step toward engineering organisms capable of PCB biodegradation.