Projects

• Understanding the role of dysregulated phospholipid homeostasis in infection and immunity
  
  One of the major focus areas for the Scott Lab is understanding the role of lipids at the interface of the host-pathogen interaction. We are primarily interested in pulmonary infections and have identified several lipid metabolic pathways that are dysregulated during bacterial infection. Studies are underway comparing and contrasting the host lipid response to pulmonary infection with bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Buried within these dysregulated lipid pathways are potentially therapeutic molecular targets. Using advanced mass spectrometry imaging methods we are gaining ground in identifying new host-directed targets to treat lung infections.
  
  
• Designing engineered lipids to treat or prevent Alzheimer's disease
  
  In this project we are extending the use of structurally engineered bacterial lipids to address the neurological damage from chronic inflammatory buildup. Alzheimer's disease is one of many diseases in which chronic inflammatory buildup is thought to lead to cognitive decline. We aim to address chronic inflammation at the source to prevent long term damage.