Benjamin Stillwell BIOC430 S17

Chemistry/Biochemistry Research 430

Spring 2017

Ben Stillwell

Junior Biochemistry Major

Research Times

Tuesday/Thursday 9 AM - 11 AM

Proposed Research Project

Extraction, characterization, and application of essential oils with the goal of exploring the anti-pest, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties of the oils. The characterization of the oils will be done using GC-MS, NMR, and EPR.

Project Title

Characterization and Application of Essential Oils

General Information

Adviser: Dr. Bradley E. Sturgeon

Other Research Collaborators: Nadia Ayala and Ian C Salveson

Previous Research: N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine

Proposal

Essential oils are synthesized via secondary metabolic pathways and have a role in plant defenses against pathogens and herbivores, in plant reproduction, attraction of pollinators, and in thermotolerance. Essential oils can be classified into two different groups based on their metabolic synthesis: terpenoids, which are monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes; and low molecular weight phenylpropanoids.

Herbs are utilized for their distinctive fragrance and flavors. This flavor and smell stems from the essential oils, which get their name for embodying the essence of the plant’s smell. When choosing herbs to enhance smell and flavor it is important noting differences in essence between varieties of species. For instance, there are more than 350 species of thyme with an untold amount of cultivated varieties, all bearing slightly different essences and oils.

The goal of this research is to extract the oils of cultivated varieties of species and analyze the chemical composition and the possible effects the oils have as a pesticide. The analysis will be done via NMR and gas chromatography and will employ standards of these chemicals as a tool for identifying compounds. The basis for the expected chemical makeup will be based on Tucker and Thomas’ The Big Book of Herbs: A Comprehensive Illustrated Reference to Herbs of Flavor and Fragrance.

Instruments to be used

Steam Distillation, HPLC, NMR, ESR

References

1. Regnault-Roger, C. et al. (2012) Essential oils in insect control: low-risk products in a high-stakes world. Annu. Rev. Entomol. 57, 405-424.

2. Pavela, R and Benelli, G. (2016) Essential Oils as Ecofriendly Biopesticides? Challenges and Constraints. Trends in Plant Science. 21, 1000-1007.

3. Tucker, A. O., & Debaggio, T. (2000) The Big Book of Herbs. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press.

Research pledge

I, Ben Stillwell, have read the Chem/Bioc 430 course syllabus and understand the general structure and expectations of the research program. The above material was prepared after consultation, and in conjunction with my research advisor.