7th Annual WML Academic Symposium

Presenter(s): Rasheda Boachie and Laura Schnoor
Title: Determining the Antimicrobial Effects of Perillaldehyde
Developed under the guidance of Dr. Michelle Thomas , Biology

Perillaldehyde is an essential oil used as a food additive for flavoring and in perfumes. Current literature shows that perillaldehyde has antibacterial properties, particularly against respiratory pathogens. However, there has been no research performed about the effects of perillaldehyde on gastrointestinal pathogens. The goal of this project is to determine if perillaldehyde is effective against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium, inhabitants of the colon, and Helicobacter pylori, which flourishes in the stomach. If perillaldehyde survives stomach acidity and is active against these potential pathogens, it could serve as an alternative antimicrobial treatment.