Timothy Baldwin
Microbiology
Research Topic: Analysis of cardiolipin synthases’ role in Bacteroides fragilis resistance to increased osmolarity.
Research Summary:
Timothy's research focused on how the gut bacteria, Bacteroides fragilis, responds to increased salt levels. This bacteria plays a crucial role in our gut health. He studied a specific type of fat molecule called cardiolipin, which helps maintain the bacteria's cell structure. Timothy hypothesized that when faced with higher salt levels, the bacteria would produce more cardiolipin to protect itself. However, his findings surprised him. He found that overall cardiolipin production decreased, but some specific genes involved in making cardiolipin became more active. This suggests that the bacteria might be using different strategies to cope with salty conditions, depending on the specific type of cardiolipin needed.
