Douglas Dennis

Research in the Dennis lab focuses on the synthesis and structure of polyhydroxyalkanoate inclusions in bacteria. Polyhydroxyalkanoates are of interest because they can be extracted from bacterial cells and formed into biodegradable plastic. In fact, a PHA production facility is now being built in Iowa and biodegradable plastic items, such as shampoo bottles, should start being seen on grocery market shelves in a year or two. The purpose of the research being conducted at MSU is to determine the molecular bases for the synthesis of the inclusions. For instance, what proteins participate in the process and in what sequence? Molecular and genetic techniques are employed to answer these questions. A second line of questioning being asked is how the proteins provide structure for the inclusion. This question is investigated using atomic force microscopy, a relatively new technology that allows researchers to image objects as small as molecules. The anticipated result is an understanding of polyhydroxyalkanoate inclusion biogenesis that may aid us in the development of more efficient biodegradable plastic production.