Audrey Long ’24
Characterizing the Enzymatic Activity of Azoreductases in the Gut Microbiome
Audrey Long ’24, Biochemistry major
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Tyler Stack, Chemistry and Biochemistry
Poster Presentation: Wednesday, April 24, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
The human gut microbiome is home to trillions of organisms that can react with drugs, food dyes and other consumed compounds. These metabolites can have different effects than intended. However, predicting this metabolism is difficult due to individual and temporal changes in the microbiome. One enzyme family of azoreductases reduces azo bonds (R1-N=N-R2) in drugs and food dyes. We characterized the enzymatic activity of one azoreductase and determined the preferences and rates of this enzyme in modifying drugs and dyes. Further investigations will help predict an individual’s microbiome response, improve personalized medicine, and minimize side effects.
