RESEARCH PROJECTS
Project 1: Host-directed drug development for TB
Identification of novel host targets for TB HDT using multi-omics, genomic screens, bio-ID approaches
Understanding the molecular mechanisms of host signaling pathways exploited by Mtb
Development of small molecules and biologics targeting host kinases, phosphatases, and receptors for TB HDT
Project 2: Understanding macrophage biology in the context of pathogenic infections
Functional characterization of host transcription factors (e.g. ATF2, SIX1) relevant for bacterial infections
Understanding macrophage antibacterial mechanisms and pathways: phagocytosis, phagosome maturation, autophagy, cell death, reactive oxygen species, cytokine production, metabolism
Project 3: Epigenetics of lung immune cells in TB
Combinatorial ATAC-seq with transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of macrophages during Mtb infection
Profiling the epigenomic signatures of human alveolar macrophages in the context of TB
Identification of epigenomic signatures for TB biomarkers and diagnostics
Project 4: Novel antibiotic discovery against AMR pathogens
Determining the efficacy and mechanism of BPD compounds against Mtb and NTM species
Identification and characterization of natural and semi-synthetic compounds with antibacterial activity
Determining the targets, mechanisms, and in vivo efficacy of new antimicrobial compounds
Repurposing of bioactive compounds for anti-tumor therapy
Project 5: Wastewater surveillance for TB in Nunavut
Establish a real-time, wastewater-based surveillance (WWS) and screening system in Iqaluit, Nunavut, to monitor Mtb biomarker levels across time
Using WWS to inform early public health interventions to prevent both disease progression and community transmission
Develop, optimize and evaluate assays to detect, quantify and calibrate levels of Mtb from wastewater and clinical samples
