The Peters? lab is interested in dissecting processes and protein/DNA interactions relevant to chromosome integrity. In this regard we are interested in the molecular mechanism that allows a discrete DNA element which can move within bacteria, called transposon Tn7, to recognize target sites associated with DNA replication. In addition to gaining insight into the regulation of a DNA recombination machine, this work with Tn7 will also advance our understanding of DNA replication and DNA repair. Interestingly, the ability of Tn7 to direct transposition into replicating DNA appears to allow it to recognize plasmids capable of moving between bacteria called conjugal plasmids. The ability of Tn7 to preferentially insert into plasmids capable of moving between cells would facilitate its dissemination between bacterial populations. Because Tn7 also encodes resistance to a number of antibiotics this work reveals a mechanism that could help account for the spread of drug resistance in bacteria.

Joe Peters teaches Bacterial Genetics (BioMI485, BioGD485, BioBM485) and Scientific Communication Skills (BioMI797). He co-teaches the extended General Microbiology Course (BioMI290 – 4 credit option)