Biology Students Receive Research Award to Study Endophytic Fungi

Seinor biology and molecular cell physiology students Sophia Guagliano, Alex Kalina, and Nicole Secondino have been awarded a $1000 research grant to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of endophytic fungi isolated from the skins of avocado (Persea americana) fruits collected from different geographical locations. In addition to learning laboratory research techniques through this project, it may also be possible to ultimately discover new antimicrobial compounds.

From left to right, Sophia Guagliano, Alex Kalina, Prof. Jon Polishook, and Nicole Secondino in the lab

This work is being completed in the research laboratory of Jon Polishook, adjunct professor in the Department of Biology, who teaches various molecular cell physiology courses including general biology, developmental biology, and biotechnology. Polishook has been working with undergraduates to conduct independent research since 2020.

The global health issue of antimicrobial resistance to currently approved antibiotics is an ever increasing threat to humans and animals. This necessitates the research of and discovery and development of novel antibacterial and antifungal compounds.

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