Georgetown University · BiologyBrinsmade Pathogenicity Lab
Shaun R Brinsmade · Washington, District of Columbia
Research Focus
Dr. Shaun R. Brinsmade's lab at Georgetown University focuses on understanding how the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus interacts with other bacteria, particularly in polymicrobial infections like chronic wounds. His research investigates the role of branched-chain fatty acids—essential lipids for bacterial survival and virulence—highlighting how these fatty acids can be salvaged and synthesized in the presence of other bacteria. Ultimately, the goal is to develop new treatments for complex infections that are worsened by multiple bacterial species working together.
Staphylococcus aureuspolymicrobial infectionsbranched-chain fatty acidspathogenicitychronic woundslipid metabolismtwo-component signalingantibiotic resistance
Research Aims
4AIM 01Investigate the synthesis of branched-chain fatty acids in Staphylococcus aureus during co-infections.
AIM 02Explore how other bacteria assist Staphylococcus aureus in constructing its membrane.
AIM 03Define the role of branched-chain fatty acids in signaling for virulence factors.
AIM 04Develop novel therapeutic strategies for treating polymicrobial infections.
Skills the Lab Values
cell culturein vitro infection modelsmass spectrometrylipidomicsgenetic manipulation techniquesbiochemical assaysmolecular biology techniquessignal transduction analysisprotein purification
Output against the department
Publications39bottom 7% of dept.960th of 1,033
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations1.3kbottom 8% of dept.954th of 1,033
this lab
most citedleast cited
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