Team Enteric
About
Team Enteric is dedicated to discovering innovative alternatives to traditional antibiotics for combating E. coli, the culprit responsible for 90% of all urinary tract infections (UTIs). Their research focuses on bacteriocins—naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides that offer a targeted approach to bacterial inhibition. Specifically, they are investigating colicins, a bacteriocin produced by E. coli that can inhibit the growth of various closely related strains. Additionally, they are working with nisin, an antimicrobial protein from Lactococcus lactis, which Riley Lab researchers have shown to be effective against gram-negative bacteria like E. coli. To maximize the potential of these natural antimicrobials, the team is testing different combinations of colicins and nisin to explore synergistic effects that could outperform traditional antibiotics. Their goal is to provide a new pathway for treating UTIs that could reduce reliance on conventional antibiotics and combat the rising threat of antibiotic-resistant infections more effectively.
Current Members
Kosi Chugbo-Junius ● Tamara Turk ● Leah Leclair