People

C-di-GMP is a ubiquitous secondary messenger produced by bacteria that has been shown to influence various phenotypic expressions such as biofilm formation and virulence. I am currently studying the role PDE's play in Shigella flexneri phenotypic expression and the mechanisms involved. Aside from research I enjoy spending time with family and friends, travelling and exercising. 

I am working on an acid resistance mechanism in stomach bacteria which is led by the breakdown of Branched Chain Amino Acid Isoleucine. To understand exactly how this pathway works, I am systematically deleting genes involved in isoleucine metabolism- in both fatty acid degradation and methyl-citrate cycle pathways, testing those mutants for acid survival and then complementing the deletions to confirm the specific role of each gene while also tracking key metabolites like glutamate to trace the protective mechanism. This allows me to investigate how Shigella evolved to lose this ability which not only teaches us about bacterial evolution but could also reveal new targets for anti-virulence therapies. I am majoring in Biomedical Sciences at Western Michigan University, aiming to pursue a career in Biomedical Sciences. By my work, I want to contribute to global healthcare by combining biology with medicine and want to be part of Science. In my free time, I enjoy cycling, playing ping-pong, hosting dinner, and walking out. I barely say no when it comes to visiting and touring new places. 

My work is focused on purifying the IlvH and IlvI proteins and determining their interaction with the important secondary messenger, C-di-GMP. These findings will establish if and how C-di-GMP can play a role in the regulation of branched-chain amino acid synthesis and, consequently, acid resistance in bacteria like Shigella and E. Coli. I am a student at the University of Michigan, likely majoring in biotechnology and bioenvironmental science to pursue a career in biotech research. In my free time, I love doing gymnastics, reading, and spending time with friends, family, and pets.