We combine sensitive biophysical techniques such as single-molecule fluorescence and force-spectroscopy with mechanistic modeling and molecular genetics to study bacterial motility, adaptability and antibiotic resistance.
Cell Mechanics
Bacteria must sense their attachment to a surface before establishing biofilms. As 'Biofouling' due to biofilms annually costs industries billions of dollars, how bacteria sense solid surfaces are of considerable interest. We are researching tactile sensing or 'mechanosensing' in bacteria to determine how biofilms are formed. In collaboration with industries, we are testing antibacterial products to mitigate biofouling of surfaces.
Nanobiotechnology
Self-assembly drives the formation of all biological systems, including a variety of nanomotors and machines. We are interested in understanding the mechanisms underlying rapid self-assembly of protein machines in cells. Specifically, we are interested in the assembly dynamics that govern how quickly a cell can adapt to an external stressor. We anticipate that the designs based on our insights will help develop synthetic systems with exciting applications in nanobiotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
Spread of Carcinogenic Bacteria
Helicobacter pylori infections are a major cause of peptic ulcers and gastric cancers. Although infections are currently treated with antibiotics, the growing instances of antibiotic resistant H. pylori are increasingly becoming a serious concern. Bacterial infections and colonization are promoted by chemotaxis, which refers to the ability to swim towards favorable chemical environments. We are investigating how the chemotaxis signaling network modulates H. pylori’s flagellar functions to promote colonization. Based on our fundamental investigations, we aim to develop innovative strategies for preventing H. pylori infections and related cancers.
Protein Engineering
In collaboration with other groups at Texas A&M, we are combining computational methods with molecular genetic tools to rationally design proteins to generate bio-polymeric structures with desirable structures and functionalities. These approaches are expected to aid in the development of superior therapeutics and nutritional supplements.
