Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis · PharmacologyThe Cystic Pathogen Lab
William J Sullivan · Indianapolis, Indiana
Research Focus
Dr. William J. Sullivan's lab focuses on understanding how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite persists in the brain as a latent form, which can reactivate in immunocompromised individuals. The lab is investigating the role of translation initiation factors in the formation of these latent cysts, aiming to discover new therapeutic targets that could help prevent serious infections caused by this parasite. By using innovative cell models and advanced techniques, the lab seeks to uncover the complex mechanisms involved in protein synthesis during the cyst formation process.
Toxoplasma gondiitranslation initiationbradyzoiteneural infectionsprotein synthesis
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate how translation initiation factors affect bradyzoite formation in neurons.
AIM 02Determine the phosphorylation status of TgIF2 during latent conversion.
AIM 03Identify mRNAs that are preferentially translated in bradyzoite conversion.
AIM 04Analyze the RNA structurome of Toxoplasma gondii for regulatory elements.
AIM 05Characterize eIF4F complexes and their role in translation modulation.
Skills the Lab Values
cell cultureprotein analysismRNA sequencingRNA structure analysisgene editing
Output against the department
Publications189top 47% of dept.216th of 462
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations6.0kbottom 43% of dept.265th of 462
this lab
most citedleast cited
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