Diversity in Life Sciences

The Janowiak lab uses biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular genetics to explore the relationship between microbes and their environment. The lab has two main focuses: 1) Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria and their response to oxidative stresses produced by the mammalian host, and 2) The contribution of glutathione and other antioxidants to the survival and maintenance of bacteria residing in the mouse vaginal microbiome. Our bacterium of interest is Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae). Our favorite oxidative stress response is glutathione, and we specifically study its synthesis, import, export, and metabolism in the bacteria. To study the regulation of and the molecular mechanisms involved with glutathione metabolism, we are employing a combination of transcriptomics, metabolomics, and good old fashion biochemistry. The lab is examining the effect of glutathione metabolism on the biodiversity of the vaginal microbiota. Group B Streptococcus is often found in the healthy vaginal microbiome, but can become an opportunistic pathogen and cause significant disease. Therefore, the lab is interested in the role antioxidants, namely glutathione, play in maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome.