Our lab uses innovative strategies to study the fundamental biological processes of two genetically tractable, highly divergent intracellular pathogens, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. These studies will expand our understanding of the basic biology of host-pathogen interactions.
Cell cycle dynamics during host invasion
Upon entry into host cells, bacterial pathogens go through several steps prior to replicating their DNA. Several regulators of cell cycle have been studied in several model organisms, however, their contribution to the life cycle of pathogens inside eukaryotic cells is not well known. We are actively investigating these processes cell culture models of infection.
Identifying novel regulators of DNA replication during pathogenesis
We are using a combination of transposon mutagenic and mass spectrometry based proteomic screens to identify novel factors involved in regulating DNA replication, specifically during host-invasion. Our goal is to find and characterize novel drug targets for the development of new antibiotics.
Determining the effect of host factors on cell cycle regulation
Intracellular pathogens modulate host proteins during pathogenesis. We are investigating how these host-microbe interactions contribute to cell cycle regulation of intracellular pathogens.