BMB MS Thesis Proposal Presentation by John Dalton
Advisors: Dr. Qinguo Fan and Mr. Jones Chang
Committee Members: Mr. Jones Chang, and Drs. Qinguo Fan, Caiwei Shen, Chen-Lu Yang
Abstract:
The aim of this research is to produce the enzyme bilirubin oxidase through stress-induced expression in Bacillus subtilis and to evaluate its application as a cathodic biocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction in a hybrid hydrogen fuel cell. The study focuses on identifying ideal conditions to enhance enzymatic activity and operational stability under electrochemical conditions relevant to fuel cell operation. The sources of cellular stress in this study will be nitrogen starvation and the presence of copper ions in growth media, both of which have been linked to increased Bilirubin Oxidase activity. In addition, graphene oxide will be employed as a conductive interfacial material to improve enzyme immobilization, orientation, and utilization on carbon fiber electrodes. Owing to its high specific surface area, excellent biocompatibility, and abundance of functionalizable oxygen-containing groups, graphene oxide facilitates strong enzyme–electrode interactions and promotes favorable catalytic orientation for efficient electron transfer. The synergistic integration of bilirubin oxidase, graphene oxide, and carbon fiber will improve cathodic performance while maintaining long-term stability of the system. Ultimately, this work seeks to advance the development of efficient and durable bio-based cathodes for fuel cell applications.
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Qinguo Fan
5089999147
qinguo.fan@umassd.edu