Innovations in microbiological research education: A practical approach for investigating the effects of graphene oxide sheet nanomaterial on opportunistic pathogen viability

Abstract

Practical work in the laboratory is a key aspect of the teaching-learning process in science because it allows students to acquire skills that are essential for carrying out experimental research. This is also a technique that provides meaningful learning. Microbiological control works with oxide graphene sheets (GO), which means a breakout of novelty in their formation courses to acquire a PhD degree. We designed this work to provide postgraduate students with microbiological, biochemical, technical, and interpretative tools for the analysis of the effect of GO on cell viability and membrane structure through an innovative laboratory in which the effect of nanomaterials on Pseudomonas aeruginosa was observed. In this way, the aim is to contribute to their postgraduate training, with quality information and techniques that students can appropriate, and then apply the to, or enrich, their research. At the end of this laboratory exercise, students will be able to interpret the consequences of GO on membrane damage and changes in membrane fatty acid composition. Innovative and authentic classroom research experiences are considered valuable building blocks for science at the university level, as well as for increasing student motivation, and linking research to teaching.