Cal Poly students research ancient bacteria preserved in amber. Feeling like Jurassic Park

At California Polytechnic State University, scientists are delving into ancient microorganisms trapped in amber, evoking a real-life Jurassic Park atmosphere. Led by biochemistry Professor Katharine Watts and postdoctoral researcher Rachel Johnson, the team studies microbes that have survived for tens of millions of years, using rare specimens contributed by Professor Emeritus Raul Cano.

Cano had previously collaborated with the scientist whose work inspired Michael Crichtons famous novel. The collection includes bacteria preserved in fossilized tree resin and some obtained from deep-sea core samples. The teams goal is to investigate these microbes for antibiotic activity and analyze their resistance patterns.

Student researchers Safiya Rufino and Kaitlyn Calligan are central to the project. Rufino, a food science and microbiology major, expressed the awe of working with microbes from a prehistoric era, noting the surreal experience of studying organisms that existed millions of years ago. Calligan focuses on understanding the evolution and ecological roles of the bacteria and their protein products.

The specimens, ranging from 20,000 to 40 million years old, are stored at -80C in Cal Polys laboratory facilities. Researchers examine the microbes small molecules, which may contain new antibiotic compounds. Johnson explained that analyzing microbial DNA can reveal the genetic instructions behind the production of these molecules, providing insights into their natural functions.

Rufino investigates the secondary metabolites produced by these ancient bacteria, aiming to identify natural compounds capable of inhibiting modern pathogens. The research contributes to understanding how antibiotic resistance develops and could ultimately inform the design of future medications.

Although the work gives off a Jurassic Park vibe, the experiments remain at a low biosafety level, focused on protein analysis rather than cloning. Both Rufino and Calligan are BEACoN scholars, a Cal Poly program supporting underrepresented students through research and mentorship. Their involvement highlights the importance of diversity in scientific discovery and access to cutting-edge research opportunities.

The team continues its exploratory work, hoping to uncover new insights into ancient bacteria and their potential to address modern antibiotic challenges.

Author: Harper Simmons