June 15, 2026
Nebiyat Feleke Adimassu at ASM National Meeting 2026
Poster title
Lipase Activity of Bacteria Isolated from the Eyelid Margin
A brief description of the poster
The objective of this study was to characterise the lipase activity of bacteria isolated from the human eyelid margin. The findings showed that bacterial isolates, including most Staphylococcus species and some Corynebacterium and Cutibacterium species, produced lipase, suggesting they may have the potential to degrade meibum lipids. Lipolytic activity varied between bacterial species and strains, indicating differences in their lipid degradation potential. These findings support further investigation into the role of bacterial lipases in the pathogenesis of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
A short reflection on the conference experience
I was pleased to attend the ASM 2026 Conference in Melbourne. It was a valuable opportunity to learn from leading microbiology experts and emerging researchers and to gain insights into the latest developments in the field.
Coming from an optometry background, the conference helped me develop my understanding of microbiology, which is highly relevant to my PhD research investigating the role of bacteria in MGD.
I was also delighted to present a poster showing part of our research work and to engage in discussions with researchers from diverse disciplines.
I am sincerely grateful to my supervisors, Scientia Professor Fiona Stapleton and Professor Mark Willcox, for their continuous support and guidance. I would also like to thank the School of Optometry and Vision Science (SOVS), UNSW, for providing DRTG funding that made my attendance possible.
A special thank you to my friends and colleagues Umme Laila Urmi, Jiawei Shen, Suleman Irfan, Biruk Bayleyegn Belete, and Teshome Belachew Eshete for representing SOVS UNSW and the Willcox Lab and for all the support, encouragement, and enjoyable moments we shared throughout the conference.
