Explore quorum sensing, the bacterial communication system that drives gene expression and influences fields from medicine to agriculture. In this hands-on workshop, biotechnology and health careers instructors will investigate operon regulation using Aliivibrio fischeri, a model for quorum sensing and bioluminescence. Applications in antibiotic resistance (e.g., Pseudomonas infections in cystic fibrosis), agriculture (plant-microbe interactions), cosmetics (microbiome-based skincare), regenerative medicine and environmental science will be discussed. Aligned with CTE biotechnology standards, this session provides lab strategies to engage students in cutting-edge biotechnology concepts with real-world relevance.
