8th Annual WML Academic Symposium

Time: 1:00
Room: 312
Presenter(s): Brian Conner, Jared Fernandez, Josh Shurley, Thomas Turner, and Chris Walker
Title: Investigation of Microbial Involvement in the Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis
Developed under the guidance of Dr. Bonnie Brenseke and Dr. Terence Mitchell , Osteopathic Medicine

This research investigates the linkage between atherosclerosis pathogenesis and bacterial recognition which both revolve around a common mechanism of inflammation. Histological evidence correlating the presence of bacteria within atherosclerotic plaques has not yet been made. Cadaver arteries with atherosclerotic plaques were collected as samples, concurrently with controls. The samples were evaluated by staining with Hematoxylin and Eosin, Gram stain, Warthin-Starry stain, and Acid-Fast stain under light microscopy. Following histologic examination, no overt findings suggestive of bacteria were present. Despite these negative findings, infection and the accompanying immune response’s role in atherosclerosis continues to be a growing area of research.