University of South Florida · BiochemistryClostridioides Difficile Research Laboratory
Yu Chen · Tampa, Florida
Research Focus
Dr. Yu Chen's lab at the University of South Florida focuses on the bacteria Clostridioides difficile, which is a major cause of hospital infections. The lab studies how certain proteins in the bacteria help it resist antibiotics and contribute to its ability to produce resilient spores. By understanding these mechanisms, the lab aims to develop new treatments to combat recurring infections caused by this pathogen.
Clostridioides difficileantibiotic resistancesporulationpenicillin-binding proteinszinc-binding proteins
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the role of penicillin-binding proteins in C. difficile's life cycle.
AIM 02Analyze the antibiotic resistance profiles of C. difficile.
AIM 03Develop new inhibitors targeting C. difficile sporulation.
AIM 04Explore the structural features of C. difficile PBPs with zinc ions.
AIM 05Assess potential combination therapies for recurrent C. difficile infections.
Skills the Lab Values
protein purificationenzymatic assaysgene knockout techniquesstructural biologyin vitro assays
Output against the department
Publications1,548top 1% of dept.2nd of 402
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations79ktop 2% of dept.9th of 402
this lab
most citedleast cited
Career totals from OpenAlex, compared against labs that share a department. A department spans everything from one paper to tens of thousands, so bar heights are on a log scale — otherwise the largest lab would flatten every other bar to a line.