CIQUIBIC-CONICET-UNC


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Staff

MONTI, Mariela R.

Associate Researcher CONICET / Adjunct Professor UNC
Phone: +54 351 5353855 x 3433
E-mail: mmonti@mail.fcq.unc.edu.ar

Research Topic

Interaction between DNA replication and repair processes in bacteria. Generation of peptides with antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Our research projects focus on understanding at the molecular level how DNA replication and repair processes are interrelated. This research was initially addressed using proteomics techniques through which a clear association between the mismatch repair MutS protein and different components of the replication machinery was observed. Currently, we are focused on analyzing the functional role of the MutS interaction with replicative factors using different approaches including biochemical assays, genetic-molecular tests and microscopic techniques.

Our laboratory uses as experimental model the opportunistic pathogenic bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This organism is the causative agent of various infections in humans, and its eradication is difficult because of the development of resistance to most antibiotics. Thus, we are also focused on generating peptides that inhibit the activity of proteins involved in the chromosome replication as they constitute unexplored targets for antimicrobial therapy.

Selected publications

(See more publications-CONICET)

Fellows

Current Grants

  • Secyt-UNC

Brief CV

Academic Formation

  • 1999-Bachelor in Chemistry. College of Chemical Sciences, National University of Córdoba.
  • 2005-PhD in Chemical Sciences. College of Chemical Sciences, National University of Córdoba. ” Research Background “1999-2007. Environmental Microbiology. Bioremediation.
  • 2008-present. DNA repair and replication in bacteria.

Teaching Background

  • Assistant Professor. School of Chemical Sciencies, University of Córdoba, Argentina.