Molecular Mycobacteriology Research Unit

Current projects

The various projects underway in the MMRU fall under five major themes, namely:

Mechanisms of DNA repair, replication and mutagenesis in mycobacteria
An integrated genetic, biochemical and physiological approach is being adopted to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying these DNA metabolic processes. The rationale underlying our work in this area is that these processes are intricately associated with some of the key defining features of M. tuberculosis, such as its extremely slow growth rate and its ability to acquire multi-drug resistance by chromosomal mutagenesis.

The role of vitamin B12 in mycobacterial metabolism
In this study, we are investigating the biosynthesis and transport of vitamin B12 in mycobacteria, and the role of vitamin B12-dependent enzymes in the metabolism of mycobacteria.

Mechanisms of stress adaptation and antibiotic tolerance in mycobacteria
This study aims to investigate mechanisms of stress adaptation and antibiotic tolerance in mycobacteria by focusing on candidate genes that are implicated in these processes.

The impact of drug resistance-associated mutations on mycobacterial physiology
It is expected that mutations implicated in resistance to frontline anti-TB drugs might impact key physiological processes in M. tuberculosis. This study aims to investigate the effect of drug resistance on the host-pathogen interaction.

The development of new tools for TB drug discovery
In this study, we are using genetic methods to develop new tools with potential application in drug discovery.