Projects

a) the molecular mechanisms that make life at high pH possible.  These studies are directed at understanding the pH dependent gating functions of the ATP synthase and the interactions of this enzyme with respiratory complex components.

b) the virulence genes of the intestinal pathogen Clostridium difficile.  These studies focus on the oligopeptide permease, an ABC transporter that mediates the uptake of peptides, perhaps while doubling as an adhesin.