The Faces of Phages

Phages – viruses that infect bacteria- are the most numerous biological entities on the planet. Their huge numbers and diversity play critical roles in both bacteria, the environment and even human health. Here we will discuss phage’s impact on human health and disease, as well as current research in the area.

Macrophages are immune cells that act as our first line of defence against invading pathogens. They are called "big eaters" because like Pacman they can engulf bacteria, viruses and cell debris. This triggers a range of downstream inflammatory and antimicrobial signalling pathways to clear infections. My research investigates these signalling pathways with the aim to identify novel candidates that could be targeted for host-directed therapies. Host directed therapies enhance our own immune response to fight infection and could help combat the global health crisis of antibiotic resistant bacteria. I study lipid droplets which can directly kill bacteria in macrophages. I study the formation of lipid droplets to develop ways to enhance these killing weapons of our immune system.