James B. Bliska, Ph.D. (Professor)

The major focus of our research is to understand how pathogenic bacteria interfere with signal transduction pathways in mammalian cells. From the study of bacterial pathogenesis, we hope to learn how bacteria cause disease and how to prevent these medically important infections, as well as increase our understanding of the cell biology of the mammalian host.

Analysis of phagocytosis of Yersinia pests by macrophages using real-life fluorescence microscopy. Bacteria expressing GFP were added to macrophages at 4 degrees C to allow attachment. The temperature was raised to 37 degrees C to initiate phagocytosis. Images were captured every 90 sec using a Zeiss microscope equipped with a digital camera. Shown are superimposed images of GFP fluorescence and DIC taken 90 sec apart. Arrows point to a bacterium that appears to be internalized into a phagosome.