My research centers around the study of the bacterium Moraxella catarrhalis and the role it plays in exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For decades, Moraxella catarrhalis was felt to not be a significant cause of bacterial exacerbations of COPD. However, more recent research has indicated that it does indeed play an important role in the airways and lungs of patients with COPD. Specifically, I am interested in the molecular mechanisms utilized by this bacterium to cause illness in humans. My work focuses upon the study and characterization of a unique autotransporter with acid phosphatase activity. Additionally, I am working towards the establishment of an animal model for the in vivo study of Moraxella catarrhalis. Such a model system will allow for the identification and in depth analysis of gene products required by this bacterium for colonization of the living host.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Molecular microbiology of Moraxella catarrahalis
Animal modeling systems for the study of Moraxella catarrhalis
RECENT PUBLICATIONS
Book Chapter, "Book Chapter: Reviewer, Critical Care Section, "Parkland Manual of In-Patient Medicine"" 1st Edition, FA Davis Company, Philadelphia, PA, 2006
Hoopman TC, Wang W, Brautigam CA, Sedillo JL, Reilly TJ, Hansen EJ, "Moraxella catarrhalis synthesizes an autotransporter that is an acid phosphatase" 2008, 190(4):1459-72, February 2008
Point and right click (click and hold for Mac users) your mouse onand select "Save this link (or target) as..." option to save the file to your local computer.
and select "Save this link (or target) as..." option to save the file to your local computer.