Student research: Regulation of ltgA in Neisseria gonorrhoeae

research-spotlight-thumbnailIn today’s Student Research Spotlight, a predental member explains her research into Gonorrheal DNA enzymes.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae are gram-negative bacteria that can be transmitted sexually or during childbirth, leading to infections of the genitals, rectum and throat. Although gonorrhea is a treatable disease, many people are asymptomatic and go undiagnosed. If left untreated, gonorrhea can result in infertility. Recently, the development of antibiotic resistant strains has become an increasing public health concern. Research teams are focused on learning more about the bacteria so that new antibiotics can be developed.