Overview
Robert Bastidas is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Integrative Immunobiology at Duke University, where his primary research focuses on host-pathogen interactions. Dr. Bastidas employs Chlamydia trachomatis as a model system for understanding the mechanisms enabling intracellular bacterial pathogens to thrive within human cells. In addition, his recent interests extend to investigating how infections by bacterial pathogens contribute to the shaping of human immune responses. Dr. Bastidas also holds the position of Associate Editor for Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Assistant Research Professor in Integrative Immunobiology
·
2023 - Present
Integrative Immunobiology,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
The Chlamydia effector Dre1 binds dynactin to reposition host organelles during infection.
Journal Article Cell Rep · April 22, 2025 The obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis replicates in a specialized membrane-bound compartment where it repositions host organelles during infection to acquire nutrients and evade host surveillance. We describe a bacterial effector, Dre1, ... Full text Link to item CiteThe acetylase activity of Cdu1 regulates bacterial exit from infected cells by protecting Chlamydia effectors from degradation.
Preprint · February 15, 2024 Full text Link to item CiteThe emerging complexity of Chlamydia trachomatis interactions with host cells as revealed by molecular genetic approaches.
Journal Article Curr Opin Microbiol · August 2023 Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is an intracellular bacterial pathogen that relies on the activity of secreted proteins known as effectors to promote replication and avoidance of immune clearance. Understanding the contribution of Ct effectors to pathogenesis h ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Duke Preparing Research Scholars in Biomedical Sciences- Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMECo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of General Medical Sciences · 2022 - 2027Functional characterization of early Chlamydia effectors
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2018 - 2023Posttranslational modifications of host proteins by Chlamydia effectors
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2018 - 2021View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
Duke University ·
2009
Ph.D.