The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics presents:
Mark Mimee, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago
Presentation: "Engineering Gut Commensals to Protect Against Cancer and Liver Disease"
Abstract: Microbes that inhabit the human body are integral to human health and are implicated in a wide range of diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and cancer. Because of its extensive connectivity with host physiology, the gut microbiota represents an attractive target for therapeutic intervention, yet targeted manipulation of the microbiome remains challenging. Here, I will present synthetic biology approaches for the rational control of gut microbial communities through genetic engineering of native commensal bacteria. Together, these efforts reveal emerging design principles and challenges in microbiome engineering.
Host: Dr. Sarah Quillin, PhD
Refreshments will be served.
Ashley Martin
Email