EXPLORING THE COMPLEXITY OF DYNAMIC NANOMACHINES
Our research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying assembly and function of elaborate bacterial secretion systems. We use advanced microscopy, chemical biology, genetic, and biochemical approaches to understand how bacteria engineer and build complex nanomachines that transport diverse microbial cargo to target cells. Learn more about our research program and areas of study.
Chemical Tools to Study Secretion System Biogenesis and Function
We are developing powerful tools that enable dissection of type IV secretion system (T4SS) apparatus assembly and characterization of genetic pathways that regulate T4SS function. These molecular scalpels offer temporal control and reversibility, providing major advantages over traditional genetic techniques. In collaboration with synthetic chemists, we aim to develop robust chemical scaffolds that selectively disarm virulence mechanisms in diverse bacterial pathogens.
Architecture and Topology of Molecular Machines
We have a limited understanding of how the dynamic T4SS nanomachine assembles in response to target cell docking. Our lab uses biochemical approaches, advanced super-resolution microscopy, and genetics to understand how components of the T4SS interact to facilitate movement of molecular cargo from the bacterium to the host cell. We aim to understand molecular mechanisms underpinning effector delivery and to determine the role of novel extracellular features associated with these diverse surface organelles. Defining how these systems assemble and function will allow us to harness versatile T4SS machinery for the targeted delivery of biological substrates.
Microbial Interactions with the Host
How does translocated microbial cargo interact with components of the host cell? Our lab studies how pathogens build external structures that interact with host cell surfaces to trigger the delivery of substrates into specific cellular compartments. We use in vitro models of host-pathogen interaction to understand how injected molecular cargo stimulates host defense systems mounted in response to pathogen breach. These studies provide insight into mechanisms of bacterial stealth and highlight how evolution has guided protein mimicry and co-option to drive microbial occupation of diverse microenvironments.
Areas of Investigation
Carrie L. Shaffer, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Veterinary Science
Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences