Spirochetes are long, thin, spiral-shaped bacteria that look like miniature springs. While some spirochetes are harmless mud-dwelling species, pathogenic spirochetes can penetrate human tissues much like a corkscrew, leading to severe diseases such as syphilis, Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. We aim to elucidate how spirochetal RNA polymerase, the enzyme responsible for transcribing DNA into RNA, is regulated by accessory proteins known as transcription factors. We are also investigating the additional function of RNA polymerase in surveying the genome for DNA damage and recruiting DNA repair proteins when such damage is detected. Spirochetes possess unique regulatory proteins that are not found in other bacteria. By studying these distinctive proteins, we hope to shed light on the mechanisms of transcription-coupled DNA repair in spirochetes. This research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for spirochetal infections.

2026

2030