The Marino Lab at the University of Pennsylvania

The Marino Lab is in the Department of Pathobiology at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. We study the ancient arms race between bacteria and their viruses (phage) using molecular, genetic, and biochemical approaches. A major focus of our current work is understanding how phages use anti-CRISPR proteins to antagonize and overcome bacterial CRISPR-Cas systems. We also investigate the molecular factors that influence the spread of plasmids and antibiotic resistance genes. By exploring the molecular conflict between bacteria and their mobile genetic elements, we seek to improve antimicrobials and discover novel biotechnologies.