Reygan Braga

 In my research, I focus on understanding the complex interactions between Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic human pathogen, and host cells, particularly in the context of cystic fibrosis (CF). CF, a genetic disease, elevates calcium levels in nasal and pulmonary fluids, impacting host-pathogen interactions. Our previous work highlighted calcium's role in regulating P. aeruginosa virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Despite its classification as an extracellular pathogen, recent studies reveal its ability to invade and survive within host cells. As P. aeruginosa invades the host cells it undergoes significant changes in calcium concentration. While calcium signaling is well-studied in eukaryotic cells, its role in prokaryotes remains unclear. We hypothesize that P. aeruginosa adaptation to intracellular survival is in part calcium-regulated. My project aims to identify genes involved in invasion and adherence of the pathogen and host response. Additionally, we're investigating calcium's temporal and spatial dynamics within P. aeruginosa during host-cell interactions using fluorescence imaging techniques. Ultimately, this study aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying P. aeruginosa invasion and calcium signaling, shedding light on novel therapeutic targets for combating infections.