5. Natural Antimicrobials
Cinnamon
Cumin
Green Tea
Oleupurin (olive extract)
Turmeric
Coleus Oil

6. Triclosan Developed in 1972
Kills bacteria by inhibiting synthesis of fatty acids for cell walls

7. Increased Use of Triclosan
Found in 36 products in 1975
Present in 700+ products in 2010
1 billion/yr industry
Soaps, toothpaste, lockers, razors, lip balm, sandals, deodorant, children’s toys

8. Overuse?
Can hasten the development of drug-resistant strains of bacteria
Shown to cause abnormal weight loss, brain tumors and irregular limb growth in amphibians
One of most common contaminants in river water
Stored in mammalian fat

9. Assessing the Relative Efficacy of Triclosan-based Antimicrobials
Purpose: To determine the relative efficacy of Triclosan v. Non-Triclosan-based antimicrobials in inhibiting the growth of bacterial present on human skin
Method: Your task is to design a valid protocol for the assessment of this question in a controlled fashion with minimal confounding variables

10. Available Materials Antimicrobials
Triclosan Handsoap
Non-triclosan handsoap
Alcohol-based sanitizer
Clorox sanitary wipes (ammonium chloride based)
Hydrogen Peroxide
Concentrated salt water
Pure Water
Nutrient agar culturing dishes (2 per group)
Sterile cotton swabs
Forceps
Probes
Hole Punches
Paper Towels
Goggles
Incubators
25 C
37 C

11. Safety Precautions All members must wear goggles while at lab table
Do not culture or use antimicrobials on any mucosal membranes, ear or eye tissues
Dispose of all used cotton swabs in a lined garbage can