Harnessing Cannabinoids to Disrupt Drug-Resistant Biofilms
Summer Rotering ’26 Explores How CBD and CBG Can Help Against COPD Infections
Summer Rotering, class of 2026, is passionate about genetics, precision medicine and personalized care. At Touro College of Pharmacy (TCOP), she joined a thriving new area of research where she’s gaining hands-on practice and real world experience.
What topic are you investigating at TCOP?
The effects of cannabinoids on Pseudomonas aeruginosa planktonic cells and biofilms.
Did you have research experience before Touro? How did you get involved in research at TCOP?
Before Touro, I shadowed Dr. Daniel Peña at Mount Saint Mary College for a research project involving the epigenetics of roundworms. We researched various factors such as their environment, genes and cellular pathways, to slow the aging process and physical decline in order to extend their lifespan.
At Touro, I became involved with research through the associate dean of research, Dr. Zvi Loewy, and his pharmacogenomics course. After learning more about the importance of genomics in pharmacy practice, I felt passionate about the topic and wanted to learn more about how to care for patients on an individual level. By reaching out to Dr. Loewy, I was able to participate in research opportunities on campus that led to my current research experience.
How did you find your topic? Who at Touro helps you with ideas and how?
After expressing my interest in genetics, precision medicine and my passion for personalized care, Dean Loewy informed me of a research opportunity to expand on his previous research on biofilms. I was excited for the opportunity to join such a thriving new area of research.
Can you describe your study? What did you discover and who will it impact?
The study focused on the role of cannabinoids on the inhibition and eradication of biofilms formed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a virulent, biofilm-forming, gram-negative bacteria associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) acute exacerbations. Biofilm formation can worsen and prolong infections due to its antibiotic resistance, making it hard to treat in vulnerable populations. Our research explored using a natural way to break down or inhibit the growth of these biofilms through the use of cannabinoids, called cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG). Both processes—the inhibition and eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms—were shown to be effective on multiple strains with both CBD and CBG. This exciting new area of research shows potential to prevent or treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in COPD patients at risk for acute exacerbations.
Have you delivered presentations at conferences or published?
I had the honor of presenting at the 2024 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, with co-author Adina Kagan and the support of Dr. Loewy on "The Role of Cannabinoids in the Inhibition and Eradication of Biofilms Formed by PA14, a Clinical Isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa." Additionally, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work with Dr. Sidhartha Ray on the 2024 update
of “Side Effects of Drugs Annual, Recent Clinical Studies on Metals and Metal Antagonists,” chapter publication.
What are some of the most valuable research skills you are learning at Touro?
The valuable research skills I’ve learned include critical thinking, adaptability, analysis and interpretation, collaboration, project management and self-reflection through hands-on practice and real-world experience.
Why is it important for pharmacy students to do research?
Participating in research as a pharmacy student is a great opportunity for personal and educational growth. There are many different areas of research students can immerse themselves in and finding the right one can be an excellent investment in your future. By participating in research, students can increase their clinical knowledge, real-world understanding, make advancements in their field and enhance their career opportunities.
What is your ultimate career goal, and how has TCOP helped prepare you?
My ultimate career goal is to help make a difference for my patients so they can feel comfortable and confident in their healthcare journeys. Touro has provided me with valuable opportunities to practice my skills through research and hands-on practice experiences, better preparing me for my pharmacy career.
