Imaging Gas Vesicle Dynamics

Project Description

Gas vesicles (GVs) produced by bacteria can be used as ultrasound contrast agents; however, because of their small size, they are difficult to detect. Strategies to enhance ultrasound sensitivity can involve exploiting the nonlinear response of GVs to sound waves. The goal of this project is to better understand the nonlinear responses of GVs by using optical imaging. The student will build a polarization microscope to image GVs and monitor their responses to ultrasound modulation.

Mentor

Francisco Sanchez