Robert E. Thach, Ph.D.

DEPARTMENT OF Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics
Keywords: gene expression, RNA, iron, protein synthesis, translational initiation

Our chief area of study has in recent years become the ecology and epidemiology of vector-borne diseases. Of particular interest are Erlichiosis, Southern Tick-associated Rash (Lyme-like) Illness, Tularemia and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The pathogens responsible for these diseases are increasing in Missouri (long-recognized as a major center of tick infestation in the United States), and pose a significant public health hazard. We utilize a combination of field and laboratory approaches to identify the animal reservoirs which perpetuate these pathogens in nature. Using this information we hope to shed light on why pathogens are not evenly distributed geographically, but are often clustered in “hot spots”.

Close collaborators in this study are Dr. Gregory A. Storch, Chief of Infectious Disease at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, and Brian F. Allan, graduate student in the Washington University Biology Department.