Dr. Stephen Dolan has revealed previously unknown information about how bacteria and fungi interact in the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis (CF), which could lay the groundwork for more effective treatment and detection of polymicrobial lung infections in people with CF.
CF, one of the most common genetic diseases in the United States, causes an abnormally sticky, thick mucus to build up in the lungs, providing the perfect breeding ground for infections.
“Everybody at home knows somebody affected by CF because it’s so prevalent,” said Dolan, who said his CF-related research allows him to do high-level microbiology that is also clinically relevant.
Dolan working with his collaborators at Georgia Tech have uncovered how two of the most commonly found microbes in the lungs of people with CF, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus fumigatus, interact molecularly in the lungs they infect.
“Cystic fibrosis results in a wide range of challenging symptoms which impact the entire body, but repeated lung infections leading to lung damage is the major cause of mortality. It’s mostly bacteria and fungi like Pseudomonas and Aspergillus which are responsible for these infections.” said Dolan.
Dolan, who conducts his research at the Clemson University Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center (EPIC), also uncovered a previously unknown toxin detection system that allows the two microbes Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus fumigatus to co-exist in the sputum in CF lungs.
“It appears that ecologically, over millions of years, these microbes have been growing together in soil and have developed elaborate strategies to compete for space and nutrients, and then when they get into humans, those in-built mechanisms have allowed them to coexist and cause serious infections,” he said.
Dr. Robert Anholt gives a presentation at the Precision Toxicology Meeting.
Drs. Robert Anholt, Trudy Mackay and Anurag Chaturvedi attended the European Commission sponsored Precision Toxicology meeting in Brussels, Belgium. Dr. Anholt gave a presentation and Dr. Chaturvedi presented a poster. A poster by Center for Human Genetics staff Katelynne Collins, Elisa Howansky, Maria Adonay and Vijay Shankar was also presented.
Dr. Hong Luo’s graduate students Xiaotong (Stone) Chen, Zhaohui (Charlie) Chen and Ryan Watts all received travel grants to attend and presnt at the 2024 World Congress on In Vitro Biology Meeting in June.
Ph.D. student working with Dr. Fabio Morgante, Chunming Liu’s abstract was selected for a an oral presentation at the American Society for Human Genetics meeting in November 2024.
In July, Dr. Hong Luo presented a talk as the invited speaker at the First World Grassland Conference in Hohhot, China.
Dr. Haiying Laing and her students bring awarness to chestnut diseases.
Dr. Haiying Liang and her team attended the South Carolina Hemlock Festival on April 20, bringing awareness of American chestnut diseases and restoration efforts. Dr. Liang and her students continue this effort with the help of Dr. Hong Luo and his students by educating the public. In addition, they assisted with controlled pollination and planting American chestnut trees at the Chestnut Return farm in Seneca, SC.
Center for Human Genetics staff, Vijay Shankar, Maria Adonay and John Poole organized the annual Clemson University RNA-seq retreat in collaboration with the Clemson University Genomics and Bioinformatics Facility. This three-day instructional workshop had an enrollment of 31 participants and provided an in-depth overview of transcriptomics, from experimental design to analysis and interpretation.
In late April Dr. Stephen Dolan’s lab took part in the Great Strides walk in Greenville to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The Great Strides event brings people with a shared vision together and encourages collaboration, team building and leadership, while taking steps to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.
Arohi Singhal, Ph.D. student in Dr. Kerry Smith’s lab, placed 1st in Clemson’s iGRADS competition, which aims to help graduate students effectively communicate their research to an audience. In addition, she received the People’s Choice Award.
Senior biochemistry student Ryan Mehlem was part of a group that won the Pay it Forward competition, sponsored by South Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.
Dr. Stephen Dolan appointed as a member of the Editorial Board of Microbiology.
Dr. Jim Morris received the 2024 University Research, Scholarship and Artistic Achievement Award (URSAAA). The URSAAA Awards serve as a platform to acknowledge and commend the rare career milestones achieved by Clemson University faculty members.
Dr. Hong Luo’s grant proposal to the USDA-NIFA was funded with a total of $650,000 for four years starting on September 1, 2024.
Drs. Trudy Mackay (contact PI) and Robert Anholt (co-PI) were awarded $170,000 for their grant, “Genetic modifiers of Sanfilippo A and B in Drosophila” by the Cure Sanfilippo Foundation.
Dr. Shahid Mukhtar is part of a $6 million grant from The National Science Foundation to fund his study of how heat and drought affect soybeans.
Dr. Doucet-O’Hare received her Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences with a minor in Spanish from Clemson University in 2010. She then attended the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (Baltimore, MD) and earned a Ph.D. in Human Genetics in 2016 before beginning her first post-doctoral research position at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke at the National Institutes of Health in the lab of Avindra Nath, M.D. (Bethesda, MD). In 2021, Dr. Doucet-O’Hare started as a Research Fellow at the National Cancer Institute in the lab of Dr. Zhengping Zhuang. She then joined Clemson University as an assistant professor in August of 2024 in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry.
Manuel Fierro, Ph.D.
Dr. Fierro received both his BS and his Ph.D. from the University of Georgia. During his Ph.D. he was in the lab of Dr. Vasant Muralidharan to study cellular signaling within the context of malaria parasites. He then joined the lab of Dr. Josh Beck at Iowa State University to master genetic manipulation of these parasites. During his tenure as a post doctoal fellow, he developed several molecular tools to perform functional genetic studies to characterize essential protein trafficking machinery and further expand our understanding of protein export recognition. Dr. Fierro officially joins the department in October 2024 as an assistant professor.
Andrew Jezewski, Ph.D.
Dr. Jezewski will join us in January 2025 as an assistant professor. He is a molecular microbiologist and biochemist studying pathogenic eukaryotes. His graduate work at Washington University focused on metabolism, mechanisms of drug resistance, and host targeted drug-development. He comes to us from Damian Krysan’s Lab in the Stead Family Department of Pediatrics at the University of Iowa as postdoctoral scholar.
Kristina Mercer, Ph.D.
Dr. Mercer comes to us as a lecturer with 25 years of experience as a research scientist at Emory University, five years as a public health scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and three years as a lecturer of biology and course coordinator of biology labs at Kennesaw State University. She is passionate about teaching and mentoring students and is excited to continue her teaching career here at Clemson. Dr. Mercer began teaching this fall semester.
Shahid Mukhtar, Ph.D.
Dr. Mukhtar earned his Ph.D. from the Max-Planck Institute in Cologne in 2005, working under the supervision of Imre Somssich and Paul Schulze-Lefert. In 2006, he joined Jeff Dangl’s lab at UNC-Chapel Hill for his postdoctoral research, and part of his work was done at Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. In 2010, he became a faculty member at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he was awarded tenure and earned the rank of full professor. After 14 years at UAB, Dr. Mukhtar joined Clemson University in July 2024.
Jamie Wood, Ph.D.
Dr. Jamie L. Wood received her B.S. in biochemistry and M.S. in genetics both from Clemson University and her Ph.D. in biology from The University of Mississippi. She is currently an Assistant Professor of the Practice of Medical Education with Duke University School of Medicine. Dr. Wood loves teaching students about the wonders of the cellular and molecular world and looks forward to engaging undergraduate students on these topics. She also has an interest in scientific misinformation and teaching students how to be effective science communicators. She will join the department as a lecturer in January 2025.
Ashley Anthony
Ashley was born and raised just around the corner in Pickens, SC and graduated from Pickens High School in 2001. She has spent years fostering children. Ashley has many years of accounting experience and recently left Blue Ridge Electric in the Customer Service Department after 11 years of service. As our accounts payable and receivable accountant, Ashely handles all purchasing, invoicing and reimbursement needs. She is the go-to person for all Concur, Buyways and day-to-day accounting needs.
Crystal Pitts
Crystal, originally from Brooklyn, NY, has lived in the Upstate for most of her life. She graduated from Lander University in 2022 with a degree in Business Administration and received her MBA in Digital Brand Communications from Clemson University in August 2024. As our Graduate Program Coordinator, Crystal provides administrative support in planning, designing,and implementing Ph.D. degree program in the department.
Professor Dr. Shahid Mukhtar will lead a study aimed to develop sustainable ways to increase soybean yields in heat and drought. The National Science Foundation will fund the research through a $6 million Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) grant.
Soybeans, which are the second most widely planted crop in the United States, are threatened to decrease by 40% in the next 25 years due to extreme heat and drought.
“The planet is warming, and that has consequences on human life, either directly or indirectly, and on other lives, particularly plants, which provide food to 8-plus billion people across the globe,” said Shahid Mukhtar.
Dr. Mukhtar will work with a team from the Southeast including scientists from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Mississippi State University and the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. The team will aim to idenitfy how heat and drought affect soybeans, from the cellular level to the entire plant. Mukhtar’s lab will focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of how heat and drought impact individual cells in a plant through five growth stages.
“Cells have their own individual signatures, yet they are working together to respond to internal cues and diverse environmental stresses. We want to understand which type of signatures changed in response to heat and drought and why,” Mukhtar said. “Once we understand that, we hope to find a strategy to help the plants alleviate climate change-related stresses.”
Freshman biochemistry major Caroline Graham loves hanging out with friends, getting ice cream, playing soccer and pickleball and being in the water. So, with Clemson as her new home, you may find her frequenting 55 Exchange, the intermural fields, the rowing docks or the Fike pool.
Choosing Clemson for its beautiful campus and academic prestige, Caroline couldn’t wait to receive her acceptance letter and become a tiger, even though she had to wait until her varsity soccer game was over on acceptance day to see it!
Originally from Charleston, SC, Caroline attended Wando High School where she was involved in many extracurricular activities.
The decision to be a biochemistry major stems from Caroline’s passion to be a Pediatric Physician’s Assistant (PA).
“I think that the biochemistry major will provide me with a well-rounded education as well as a variety of job options if I decide to go another route that a PA.”
Caroline has joined Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women, whose mission is to promote friendship, develop women of integrity, cultivate leadership potential and enrich lives through community service. In addition, she intends to join the Paws for PA Club, a group of Clemson Tigers seeking to be the next generation of world-changing physician assistants as well as Friday morning Swim Club!
“I love Clemson so far! Everyone here is so kind and passionate about what they do/want to accomplish. My favorite thing I have done at Clemson is probably going to the Rowing docks and swimming with friends.”
Nyah Franqui ’28
Freshman genetics major and premed student with a minor in Life Sciences Nyah Franqui has had an interest in genetics since her first biology class.
“Since my first biology class, I have gained an interest in genetics and always wanted to learn more. I also believe that genetics is the future of medicine in addressing diseases and providing specific prescriptions to help with an individual’s needs.”
Originally from Hendersonville, NC, Nyah graduated from the Nesbit Discovery Academy. In addition, she received her associate’s in science from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College during her junior year through dual enrollment.
A fun fact about Nyah is that for eleven years, she has practiced Tae Kwon Do and is third-degree black belt! On campus, Nyah plans to become involved in the American Medical Student Association, RAMS, CURE and the EMT club. After graduation she intends to enter the medical field.
“I plan on using my degree throughout my medical journey and practice. I am planning on becoming a Diagnostic Radiologist, but I am also thinking about regenerative medicine.”
Nyah was so excited about receiving her acceptance on the day before her 18th birthday.
“I had my Clemson sweatshirt on as I opened up my email. When I saw I was accepted, my family and I were ecstatic, we celebrated by getting ice cream. Best birthday ever. I’m “All In” on making Clemson my home away from home.”
Griffin Sorensen ’28
Griffin Sorensen, incoming freshman for the fall, has know for a long time that she wanted to major in genetics, and she cannot wait to begin working towards her degree!
Originally from Columbia, SC, Griffin attended the Ben Lippen School, a Christian based school that uses Bible-bases curriculum that seeks to equip students for the future by receiving personalized guidance on exploring college, careers and other post-graduation goals. In high school, Griffin’s participated in the sailing club. She has other hobbies as well.
“I love to explore, run, and try new things. A fun fact about me is that I can ride a unicycle.”
Griffin loved the feel of Clemson’s campus and all the opportunities that the university offers. When she got her acceptance letter, she was so excited, she couldn’t wait to get to campus and begin her degree in genetics.
“I’ve always loved research sciences, but genetics has always been the one that stuck out to me because it impacts many areas of life that one might not think it would be present in.”
When Griffin arrives on campus, she plans to join the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Genetics and Biochemistry Club and other clubs that help her stay active. In the future, she plans to go to Physician’s Assistant School and get her PA degree so that she can work in a genetic clinic helping people who have genetic disorders.
“I cannot wait to attend Clemson! I get more and more excited by the day. Go Tigers!!”
Kylie Wilson ’28
Coming from Lexington, SC and majoring in genetics, incoming freshman Kylie Wilson is ready to make Clemson her new home! She is the first in her family to attend Clemson University.
When Kylie toured Clemson for the first time, it felt like home to her. She admired the beaty of the campus and the college-town feel. It was during her junior year AP Biology course when she decided she wanted to study genetics in college.
“I loved every second of that class and found everything in it super interesting, especially the heredity unit. When I saw Clemson had a genetics program, I was really excited. It really feels like the perfect place for me to pursue my passions in the field of genetics.”
At River Bluff High School in Lexington, Kylie played school and travel volleyball, was in the BETA Club, National Honor Society and Women’s Empowerment Club. In her free time Kylie likes to work out, spend time with friends and family, attend sports games, travel, try new foods and shop.
On decision day, Kylie was nervous; she had already decided she wanted to attend Clemson and participate in the genetics program. She was hoping all the hard work she put into high school had paid off. It did.
“I had my family gathered around my computer at 6:00pm sharp and when I saw that I got accepted I was so so excited.”
When Kylie arrives on campus she plans to get involved in Greek Life, the Genetics and Biochemistry Club, and intramural volleyball. With her genetics degree, Kylie notes that there are many career options, but she is interested in genetic counseling and forensic DNA analysis.
“I feel really prepared for this next chapter in my life and I’m so ready to make new friends and study the things I am passionate about.”
Maddie Smith ’28
As an incoming freshman for the fall semester, Maddie will be majoring in genetics and minoring in psychology, also hoping to complete the BS to MS 5-year program that we offer.
“I am from Slidell, LS where I live with my parents, two sisters and mini poodle and where I recently graduated in May from Slidell High School.”
Maddie was involved in several extracurriculars in high school including the school’s swim and tennis teams, student advisory council, BETA Club, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Future Farmers of America (FFA) and HOSA-Future Health Professionals.
In her free time, she enjoys being a summer swim coach at the local pool, spending time with friends, travelling and going to concerts. She has most recently seen Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo and Morgan Wallen.
“Fun fact – I have been to 38 of the 50 states and three countries outside of the US: Mexico, Canada, and Italy!”
Maddie knew Clemson would be her college home after her first visit here, seeing the way the faculty truly care about their students and love the university. Maddie notes that getting her acceptance letter from Clemson was close to one of her best days. She felt honored to be given the opportunity to join the tiger family and the genetics and biochemistry department.
“The genetics program is one of the best in the country, and I have no doubt that my Clemson degree will prepare me for my future in medicine! There really is something special in the hills!”
With her genetics degree, Maddie aspires to attend medical school to become a practicing pediatric ophthalmologist.
Maddie recently joined The College of Science Mentoring and Inclusion Collaborative (COSMIC) and a Creative Inquiry research project with Dr. Todd Lyda for the fall semester. Additionally, she hopes to join other campus organizations that apply to her major and interests.
“There are no words to describe how excited I am! I have a countdown on my phone to move in day!”
Sacha Estel ’28
Sacha is an incoming freshman this fall from Summerville, SC and will be majoring in genetics. She is the first person in her family to attend Clemson and was thrilled to receive her acceptance letter earlier this year.
“Getting my acceptance letter from Clemson was an incredible experience. I held my breath opening it and felt a sigh of relief seeing that I was accepted into a school with so much potential waiting for me!”
In high school, Sacha participated in orchestra, where she played the cello. She also completed the Early College program and received an associate’s degree in science in addition to her high school diploma.
“I was involved in Project Lead The Way’s Biomedical Sciences program, where developed my passion for working in healthcare.”
When Sacha arrives on campus, she plans to join the Genetics and Biochemistry Club and study abroad one semester. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school to become a genetic counselor. In her free time, Sacha likes to spend time at the gym, play with her dogs, and enjoy the outdoors.
“I cannot wait to grow at Clemson and meet so many new people! Go tigers and class of ‘28!”
