In line with USP’s relentless commitment to innovation, Zhiyu Li, PhD, research assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences, will further his study of two enzymes instrumental to DNA maintenance with the help of a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Further research of these enzymes could result in a more thorough understanding of how bacteria cope with environmental influences and may eventually lead to the discovery if new antibiotics.
According to Dr. Li, the RecQ helicases and IA topoisomerases enzymes he is studying work together as caretakers to maintain genome stability and resolve the unique DNA structures generated during the processes of DNA metabolism. Physical interactions between the two types of enzymes have been identified in yeast and humans, and it has been shown that these interactions are critical for their biological functions. However, a helicase and topoisomerase complex has not yet been isolated, and a molecular mechanism has not been clearly established to illustrate how the enzymes function coordinately.
The long-term goal of this study, as stated by Dr. Li, is “to reveal how multiple RecQ helicases and type IA topoisomerases work coordinately or independently in DNA metabolic processes.” He will pursue this aim through the study of Bacillus cereus, a harmless form of bacteria that is favorable for research purposes and is similar to more hazardous bacteria, such as Bacillus anthracis, the etiological agent of anthrax. The outcome of this research could help us to understand how bacteria maintain new genome integrity and develop resistance using sophisticated DNA repair and recombination systems under severe environmental stress.
The NIH’s Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) grant will provide Dr. Li with $217,000 for a three-year research period. These grants, also known as R15 grants, provide support for small research projects in the biomedical and behavioral sciences conducted by students and faculty in health professional schools.
While Dr. Li is very appreciative of the R15 grant, he realizes it is only a stepping stone for his full research ambitions. “This is a transition period for us where we can accumulate good data,” said Dr. Li. “The ultimate goal for me is to extend the implications of this study onto another, bigger goal.” Specifically, he hopes to someday create a new antibiotic to target dangerous pathogenic material like anthracis. He welcomes all USP students interested in this unique research project to join him in his lab. In line with USP’s relentless commitment to innovation, Zhiyu Li, PhD, research assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences, will further his study of two enzymes instrumental to DNA maintenance with the help of a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Further research of these enzymes could result in a more thorough understanding of how bacteria cope with environmental influences and may eventually lead to the discovery if new antibiotics.