An emerging focus in our group is examining the mechanisms microbial pathogens use to establish and extend infections in humans.
We have investigated the conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance genes, for example, and have identified new potential approaches to targeting resistant bacteria.
In addition, we are studying a range of additional microbial targets, with the long-term goal of adding new weapons to our dwindling arsenal of antibacterial drugs.
Our team an emerging interest in understanding and disrupting processes central to bacterial pathogenesis.
Examples of published data include:
Guogas, L.M., Kennedy, S.A., Lee, J.-H., and Redinbo, M.R. (2009).
A novel fold in the TraI relaxase-helicase C-terminal domain is essential for conjugative DNA transfer.
Journal of Molecular Biology, 386, 554-568.
Lujan, S.A., Guogas, L.M., Ragonese, H., Matson, S.W., and Redinbo, M.R. (2007).
Disrupting antibiotic resistance propagation by inhibiting the conjugative DNA relaxase.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA, 104, 12282-12287.