Overview
My research focuses on biosynthesis and mechanisms of action of naturally occurring bioactive molecules (natural products), such as antifungals and antibiotics. We study biosynthetic enzymes and bacterial or fungal producers of the bioactive metabolites, and use the knowledge to discover novel bioactive natural products. We also study their mechanisms of action and development for application in research, medicine, or other purposes.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Associate Professor of Biochemistry
·
2019 - Present
Biochemistry,
Basic Science Departments
Associate Professor of Cell Biology
·
2022 - Present
Cell Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Associate Professor of Chemistry
·
2022 - Present
Chemistry,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Recent Publications
Radical-Mediated Nucleophilic Peptide Cross-Linking in Dynobactin Biosynthesis.
Journal Article J Am Chem Soc · November 20, 2024 Dynobactins are recently discovered ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide (RiPP) antibiotics that selectively kill Gram-negative pathogens by inhibiting the β-barrel assembly machinery (Bam) located on their outer membranes. Suc ... Full text Link to item CiteBiosynthesis and Genome Mining Potentials of Nucleoside Natural Products.
Journal Article Chembiochem · September 1, 2023 Nucleoside natural products show diverse biological activities and serve as leads for various application purposes, including human and veterinary medicine and agriculture. Studies in the past decade revealed that these nucleosides are biosynthesized throu ... Full text Link to item CiteGenome- and metabolome-guided discovery of marine BamA inhibitors revealed a dedicated darobactin halogenase.
Journal Article Cell Chem Biol · August 17, 2023 Darobactins represent a class of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide (RiPP) antibiotics featuring a rare bicyclic structure. They target the Bam-complex of Gram-negative bacteria and exhibit in vivo activity against drug-resis ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Tri-Institutional Molecular Mycology and Pathogenesis Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2029Catalysis and inhibition of chitin synthesis from pathogenic fungi
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2022 - 2027Cell and Molecular Biology Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2021 - 2026View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
Tokyo Institute of Technology (Japan) ·
2008
Ph.D.