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NIAID > Labs & Scientific Resources > Labs at NIAID > Info about NIAID Labs > Human Bacterial Pathogenesis

Laboratory of Human Bacterial Pathogenesis

Frank R. DeLeo, Ph.D., Acting Chief

406-363-9448
fdeleo@niaid.nih.gov

The Laboratory of Human Bacterial Pathogenesis (LHBP) studies the molecular basis of human bacterial pathogenesis in its broadest sense. Research projects currently focus on Staphylococcus-host interactions, with special emphasis on the virulence mechanisms of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA).

LHBP scientists study mechanisms of staphylococcal virulence, innate immune response to pathogenic bacteria, and the role of neutrophils in host defense. In addition, mechanisms of immune evasion, such as the formation of biofilms, are a major area of investigation. Genome-wide strategies are used, such as high-throughput DNA sequencing and expression-array analysis.

MRSA Proves a Stubborn Opponent: Two LHBP scientists are helping to improve understanding of how MRSA bacteria evade the immune response in healthy people.

  • Research Objectives

  • Understand the fundamental molecular mechanisms of bacterial pathogen-host interactions.
  • Develop new or improved strategies to control bacterial infections.
  • Identify host genetic factors influencing disease character.
  • Define the cell biology of pathogen-host interactions.

Sections and Units

Pathogen-Host Cell Biology Section

Frank R. DeLeo, Ph.D.

Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section

Michael Otto, Ph.D.

MRSA Proves a Stubborn Opponent: Two LHBP scientists are helping to improve understanding of how MRSA bacteria evade the immune response in healthy people

Last Updated August 04, 2011