Effects of Virgin Coconut Oil on Oral Bacteria
Felicia Wong '24 researches the effects of virgin voconut oil on oral bacteria
Allentown, PA (10/12/2022) — Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is a natural oil extracted from coconuts, preserving the natural value of its components. VCO's main components have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria or kill the bacteria. The mouth is a place that houses a diverse community of bacteria that have interactions with the oral cavity. Bacteria can be commensal (good) or pathogenic (causing disease). Pathogenic oral bacteria cause negative oral and dental manifestations, such as cavities and gum disease.The goal of this research project is to determine a concentration of VCO that can selectively inhibit the growth of oral pathogenic (bad) bacteria while allowing oral commensal (good) bacteria to survive. As an aspiring dentist, I hope that I can utilize my findings concerning VCO in the future to improve the oral and systemic (bodily) health of humans.
"Through my experiences in the lab over the summer, I realized my true passion for research and exploring the "unknown." As my research concerns a topic that has barely been looked at before, I find it fascinating to create protocols, to problem solve, and to be able to make novel discoveries. Additionally, my comprehension of biology concepts taught in the classroom has greatly deepened. The opportunity of having direct hands-on experience and individual, personalized interactions with professors have contributed to the in-depth understanding of biology that I have gained. Being immersed in summer research allowed me to take my biological knowledge and apply it to my endeavors to improve the oral health of people. I am excited to continue my research in Dr. Cuadra's lab this semester!"
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