Com-bat-ing White Nose Syndrome

Abstract

Alma iGem is a synthetic biology club that is currently striving to alleviate a silent killer within the bat populations of North America. Pseudogymnoascus destructans, more commonly known as White Nose Syndrome (WNS), is devastating to several bat species that inhabit North America. Of the nine bat species in Michigan, five are heavily impacted by WNS with mortality rates of nearly 90%. WNS degrades the collagen in bats, including their wings, noses, and ears. This wakes the bats from hibernation early, and they are unable to survive with the lack of resources in the Winter. Our team is currently working to synthesize a Serine Protease inhibitor for the enzyme Destructin 1 (Dst1), the enzyme responsible for the degradation of collagen in bats. We are working towards a product that integrates the use of the leader peptides of the inactive Dst 1, along with an arabinose-inducible system to allow for selective expression of the desired proteins. Our work in the lab is crucial to our project; however, another essential section is our work in human practices. Our human practices section works with the community to spread the importance of our work. They work with organizations such as DNR, Fish and Wildlife, and Bat Conservation International to make sure we are taking the project in the best direction. They also work within our own Alma community with the schools by educating young minds with our STEM kits that demonstrate the dangers of WNS and the allure of science with fun and engaging activities. Overall, Alma iGem is undertaking the important task of saving the bat species of North America through our work to synthesize a Serine Protease inhibitor and our community partnerships.