Abstract
This thesis focuses on Group B Streptococcus (GBS) and the detection of the bacterium, in a laboratory setting, and in vitro, using lipid vesicles as a biosensor. Lipid vesicles encapsulating a fluorescent dye, were designed to be specifically lysed by GBS, causing a measurable fluorescence change, as an indicator of GBS presence.In Chapter 3 the production of different lipid vesicles and their rigidity, as well as thermostability was explored. The composition of the lipid vesicles was narrowed down, to be specific to lysis by GBS, and to rapidly generate results to use the lipid vesicles as a biosensor and rapid detection system. Finally, the lipid vesicles were tested using both single and multispecies biofilms to determine any cross reactivity and specificity to GBS.
In Chapter 4 a pilot study was conducted where lipid vesicles were tested as a biosensor for detection of GBS from donated lower vaginal swabs. The ethical considerations, outline of the pilot study, and the results of the biosensor for detection of GBS compared to standard detection was detailed.
In Chapter 5 the mode of action for how GBS lyses lipid vesicles were investigated. This was done by testing the vesicles with a range of clinical strains as well as mutant strains of GBS and comparing the levels of lysis, and then compared to the level of β haemolysis exhibited by the strains, to determine correlation.
In Chapter 6 the relation between GBS virulence and glucose was assessed, by assessing the cytotoxicity of the bacteria in the presence and absence of glucose, both in human vaginal cells and in a larvae model.
In Chapter 7 the relationship between GBS and Candida albicans is explored in a narrative review. Focusing on population-based studies and scientific research relating to the relationship between the two.
| Date of Award | 11 Dec 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Toby Jenkins (Supervisor) & Maisem Laabei (Supervisor) |
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