Kurt Piepenbrink
Asst Professor Food Science & Technology University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Contact
- Address
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FIC 1901 N 21st Rm 262
Lincoln NE 68588-6205 - Phone
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402-472-6753 On-campus 2-6753
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kurt.piepenbrink@unl.edu
The overall goal for my research program is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria interact with their surroundings, including host cells, other bacteria, abiotic surfaces and extracellular structures. In particular, we seek to explain the phenotypic differences between bacterial strains of similar genetic background; typically by comparing pathogenic bacteria to their commensal or environmental counterparts. My current focus is on Type IV filaments, a class of extracellular appendages common to a wide range of bacteria, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative. To these ends, we pursue a variety of objectives:
Determining the high-resolution three-dimensional structures of the proteins and glycoproteins which make up extracellular assemblies.
Using lower-resolution structural techniques in combination with molecular modeling to understand how subunits are assembled into extracellular superstructures.
Identifying substrates for intermolecular interactions that underpin the adhesive activity of pili and other bacterial appendages.
Elucidating the role of extracellular polymers, particularly protein fibers and polysaccharides, in promoting and stabilizing bacterial biofilms.
Education
- BA, The Johns Hopkins University, 2005
- Ph D, The University of Notre Dame, 2011