Biofilms: Understanding their role in disease and public health

The Yildiz Lab investigates molecular mechanisms of biofilm formation using Vibrio cholerae, the causative agent of the disease cholera, as a model system. Biofilms are surface attached microbial communities that promote the growth, survival and persistence of human pathogens like V. cholerae in aquatic ecosystems. Understanding V. cholerae biofilms provides a path for developing novel treatments and prevention strategies. This topic touches on host-pathogen interaction, infectious disease, public health, as well as molecular biology and carbohydrate chemistry.