9224864 Wood This proposal is on research to investigate enhanced plasmid stability by using multiple killer genes. Enhanced plasmid stability can be useful for a higher level of expression of recombinant protien products in E. coli and for effective genetic engineering strategies for waste treatment and bioremediation. The two main points to be examined include: (1) the role of media composition and temperature on plasmid stability; and (2) the effect of using two killer genes for enhanced stability. Experiments in both chemostat and shake - flask cultures will be performed. In addition, some modeling will also be performed. ***