Life Sciences Seminar: Physiology and Pathogenesis of Chlamydia and “Chlamydia-related” Organisms
Life Sciences Seminar
Physiology and Pathogenesis of Chlamydia and “Chlamydia-related” Organisms
Dr. George Liechti
Associate Professor of Microbiology
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Abstract:
The Chlamydiae is an ancient bacterial phylum consisting of obligate intracellular pathogens and endosymbionts that reside within a wide range of host species including protozoans, arthropods, and vertebrates. It has been estimated that these bacteria adapted to intracellular life almost a billion years ago, effectively pre-dating the emergence of adaptive immune systems utilized by all multicellular life on this planet. Dr. Liechti’s laboratory focuses on how the intracellular environment has shaped the physiology of these organisms and how evolutionary adaptations have influenced the interaction of these microbes with our innate and adaptive defenses. Utilizing a combination of genetic, biochemical, and high resolution imaging approaches, his research group seeks to establish the molecular mechanisms that enable these genetically-reduced microbes to thrive within our cells and avoid clearance by our humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
Intended Audience:
Beginners, undergraduates, graduates. Those with interest in the topic.
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