Yue Chen, PhD

Yue Chen, PhD

Tufts University

Research Project:
Understanding Interplay Between Cholesterol and Potassium Uptake During TB Infection

Grant Awarded:

  • Catalyst Award

Research Topic:

  • basic biologic mechanisms

Research Disease:

  • tuberculosis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), which causes tuberculosis, poses a global threat as the leading cause of infectious disease-related deaths. What makes Mtb particularly formidable is its ability to adapt to diverse environmental signals during infection. In order to survive and grow in a host, Mtb needs to adeptly exploit available nutrient sources. This includes cholesterol, a crucial carbon source for Mtb during infection. We are focusing on a critical aspect of this adaptability, delving into how cholesterol impacts function of a key potassium uptake system in Mtb, and its relation to host potassium transport systems and Mtb growth. Potassium is essential for both bacterial and host cells. By understanding the intrinsic interplay between cholesterol and potassium uptake and balance during Mtb infection, our work sets the foundation for development of novel strategies to disrupt Mtb growth in its host, to alleviate the profound global burden of this lung disease.

Page last updated: October 7, 2024

Freedom From Smoking Clinic - Richmond, VA
Richmond, VA | Oct 29, 2024
Living Well With COPD
, | Nov 20, 2024