University of Iowa · BiochemistryThe Aureus Adaptation Lab
Ernesto Jorge Fuentes · Iowa City, Iowa
Research Focus
Dr. Ernesto Jorge Fuentes' research lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus can survive and cause infections. They study specific signaling systems in these bacteria that help them adapt to challenging environments, such as low oxygen levels. The lab's goal is to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow these bacteria to regulate their harmful factors, which could lead to new strategies for treating antibiotic-resistant infections.
Staphylococcus aureustwo-component signalingantibiotic resistancevirulence factorsbiofilm formation
Research Aims
3AIM 01Determine the role of the SrrB PAS domain and its impact on function.
AIM 02Identify ligands that bind to the Cache domain and elucidate its sensing mechanism.
AIM 03Investigate the structural basis for SrrB enzymatic regulation using advanced imaging techniques.
Skills the Lab Values
cell cultureX-ray crystallographycryogenic electron microscopyprotein purificationsite-directed mutagenesis