L.Evothyroxine – Lethbridge High School, Alberta
L. evothyroxine (a play on Lactobacillus and levothyroxine) aims to address difficulties associated with treatment of hypothyroidism. The project aims to use Lactobacillus, which exists in the small intestine, to synthesize thyroxine hormone, which is absorbed in the small intestine when taken as thyroxine medication. The use of gut bacteria allows for self regulation of thyroxine production once the modified bacterial population stabilizes. This removes the need for daily intake of thyroxine medication, allowing people affected by hypothyroidism to live without the associated restraints of traditional treatment such as necessity of access to pharmacy and control of food intake.
| Team Grade Level: | Grade 10 – 12 |
| Team Experience Level: | Beginner |
| STEM Focus: | Synthetic Biology |
| UN Sustainability Focus: | Agriculture |
