Dr. Karen Brassinga

Principal Investigator

PhD Microbiology and Immunology (2002)
McGill University
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BSc (Agr.) Microbiology (1995)
Macdonald Campus, McGill University
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Post-Doctoral Research Training (2004-2008)
Div. of Infectious Diseases and Int'l Health
Department of Internal Medicine
University of Virginia School of Medicine
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Infectious Disease Research Centre (2001-2004)
Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Faculty of Medicine
Dalhousie University

Teassa MacMartin

PhD Student

(BSc Biological Sciences, University of Manitoba)

My work focuses on the environmental and genetic factors contributing to the survival of non-pneumophila species of Legionella in potable water. After initial contamination of anthropogenic water storage or distribution infrastructure, Legionella can persist for exceptionally long periods. If a compatible protozoan host is present, Legionella can replicate to high numbers and lead to explosive point outbreaks, thus posing a risk to human health. With this consideration, we are also interested in the factors influencing virulence in both protozoan and human cell host models.

Tiffany Penner

PhD Student

(BSc Microbiology, University of Manitoba)

My research focuses on studying the structure and function of three Legionella protein effectors. Legionella effectors are translocated by the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system into a host cell, primarily protozoa and human macrophage. Effectors then target host proteins to hijack the cell for replication of Legionella. Utilizing intracellular growth kinetics and microscopy as well as, determining protein structure and their binding partners, we will elucidate the role of these effectors.

Jenny Phung

MSc Student

(BSc Honours Microbiology, University of Manitoba)

My research centers on the ecology, growth kinetics, and virulence of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), particularly Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium chimaera. These bacteria interact with protozoa in water systems, existing in various forms. By investigating their intracellular growth and resistance to disinfectants such as chlorine and chloramine, I aim to create diagnostic tools to distinguish between pathogenic and non-pathogenic MAC strains. This effort will provide essential insights into MAC behavior in water systems, enhancing public health strategies and interventions.

Melissa Poirier

NSERC USRA Student

My summer project focuses on exploring chlorine tolerance in different Legionella species from both environmental (isolated from drinking water cisterns in a First Nations community) and clinical samples. Understanding chlorine tolerance in Legionella is important for many communities that do not have access to potable water and can help recognize the changes that need to be made for improved drinking water safety.

Tyler Gislason

NSERC USRA Student

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