Shreya Jariwala L&S Biological Sciences
Identification and Characterization of Phage-Encoded Counter-Defenses
Phage-bacteria interactions drive the co-evolution of bacterial pathogens and their viral predators. Additionally, these interactions reveal novel molecular mechanisms that impact microbial ecology and therapeutic strategies. My research asks: What counter-defense mechanisms do ICP1 phages use to overcome stably encoded phage defense systems in epidemic Vibrio cholerae? ICP1 is a lytic phage that exclusively infects V. cholerae, which has developed diverse defense systems to block phage infection. In response, ICP1 encodes specialized counter-defense strategies to neutralize bacterial immunity and ensure successful infection. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for phage therapy applications, as bacterial defenses can restrict therapeutic phage efficacy. While bioinformatic advances have identified numerous bacterial defense systems, many lack known counter-defense mechanisms. My project will use CRISPR-based genome engineering to delete ICP1 genes and test their ability to overcome V. cholerae defenses. This work will define the molecular interactions driving phage-host co-evolution and inform the development of phage-based cholera interventions.
Message To Sponsor
Thank you for supporting my research on how bacteriophages overcome bacterial immune systems in Vibrio cholerae. I’m especially excited to study the genetic strategies phages use to bypass these defenses, as this work has important implications for improving phage therapy. Your generosity allows me to pursue hands-on research that deepens our understanding of microbial evolution and infectious disease. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity.