Abstract:

The interaction of a complex acoustic cavitation field and suspended cells in vitro has been explored by many previous investigators. Of greatest interest is the effect of collapsing cavitation bubbles on the membrane structure and DNA of cells. By employing E. coli bacteria that have been genetically engineered to emit visible light when they are stressed in proscribed ways, the factors influencing bubble-cell interactions can be better explored. These factors include insonation frequency (1--5 MHz), duty cycle, PRF, initial bubble size distribution, and fluid viscosity. Results from this ongoing study will be presented. [Work supported by NSF.]