| Rebekka M. Wachter Research |
Structure and function of M. tuberculosis
virulence factors
Micobacterium tuberculosis is a pathogen that infects
human lung tissue through inhalation. Alveolar
macrophages engulf the microbe by phagocytosis, and
internalization into phagosomal compartments allows for
the survival and replication of the pathogen by a complex
mechanism of biochemical adaptation. Often, a non-
replicating latent state ensues that may persist for many
years, even decades. However, a weakening of the host’s
immune system can reactivate the pathogen and induce
the onset of serious illness.
virulence factors
Micobacterium tuberculosis is a pathogen that infects
human lung tissue through inhalation. Alveolar
macrophages engulf the microbe by phagocytosis, and
internalization into phagosomal compartments allows for
the survival and replication of the pathogen by a complex
mechanism of biochemical adaptation. Often, a non-
replicating latent state ensues that may persist for many
years, even decades. However, a weakening of the host’s
immune system can reactivate the pathogen and induce
the onset of serious illness.
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Center for Bioenergy and Photosynthesis
Center for Bioenergy and Photosynthesis
In collaboration with Dr. Shelley Haydel, we are interested in the structure and function of gene
products that are controlled by two-component systems known to regulate the expression of
virulence factors. In particular, we are investigating a beta-propeller protein that may be involved
in processes related to latency and reactivation.
products that are controlled by two-component systems known to regulate the expression of
virulence factors. In particular, we are investigating a beta-propeller protein that may be involved
in processes related to latency and reactivation.
Biomedical
Computer-generated homology
model of the M. tb Rv1057
protein.
model of the M. tb Rv1057
protein.