Oren Rosenberg Seminar: The Role of Essential Genes in Microbial Virulence

Antibiotic resistance is a growing threat to global health. To optimize the use of our existing antibiotics and identify new targets for future inhibitors, understanding the fundamental drivers of bacterial growth in the context of the host immune response is paramount. Historically, these genetic drivers have been difficult to manipulate precisely, as they are requisite for pathogen survival. We are developing new genetic tools that allow for new unbiased approaches to the manipulation of virulence phenotypes in animals. We are also studying the structure and function of virulence systems that are also essential for growth in rich media. Such systems are appropriate for directed drug discovery because inhibitors hold the promise of blocking growth and virulence at the same time.

The Role of Essential Genes in Microbial Virulence

Dr. Oren Rosenberg

Associate Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases

University of California, San Francisco