August 20, 2001

WKU Researcher Honored By National Cave Group

Bowling Green, Ky. - Rick Fowler, laboratory coordinator for Western Kentucky University's Biotechnology Center, has received the National Caves Association Science Award for an environmental DNA research project.

Fowler received the award at the 2001 annual convention of the National Speleological Society held July 23-27 at Great Saltpeter Preserve in Mount Vernon.

Fowler presented the results of research under way at the WKU Biotechnology Center that will allow cave scientists to survey microorganisms from caves anywhere in the world with a relatively simple DNA test.

The presentation is a collaboration with Dr. Shivendra Sahi, associate professor of biology and director of the Biotechnology Center; Dr. Chris Groves, geography professor and director of WKU's Hoffman Environmental Research Institute; and Mammoth Cave National Park.

WKU biotechnology students LuAnn Breeding, a Rockfield senior, and Jerry Ovesen, a Hodgenville senior, performed the laboratory work required to extract and analyze DNA.

The team is developing techniques for detecting and identifying cave microorganisms by analysis of their DNA signatures in sediments collected from a variety of cave environments. Bacterial species that live in caves and underground aquifers are believed to play a natural role in cavern formation by producing acids that dissolve limestone.

Cave bacteria also are important for removing contaminants from groundwater as it flows through underground aquifers, and they form the basis of the food chain that supports the cave ecosystem. Despite their importance, little is known about the types of bacteria found in caves or their biological properties.

The DNA test will reveal microorganisms that were previously unknown, leading to greater understanding of the roles they play in subterranean geological and biological processes.

Detailed snapshots of the diversity of cave microorganisms will open windows for understanding the process of cave formation, and to detect the presence of groundwater contamination and lead to biological solutions for restoring our drinking water supplies to a naturally pure condition.

The National Caves Association is a nonprofit organization of caves that are available for public tours, including state and federal parks or commercial attractions.

The NCA award recognizes research that has the potential to improve the understanding or conservation of show caves for enhanced public enjoyment and educational opportunities.

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